55 °|5 

.'Ks 



loufherrj 





THIS PAMPHLET IS FREE TO ALL APPLICANTS WHO INCLOSE 
FIVE CENTS IN STAMPS TO PREPAY POSTAGE. 

Copyrighted by P. M. Kiely, St. Louis. 



INDEX 



To Our Patrons and the Public. . . 2 

Former Publications. 3 

Retrospective 3 

The Future Outlook 4 

Location— Shipping 5 

Frequent Handling Fruit is Ex- 
posed To 6 

In Regard to Packing 8 

Some tracts to Consider 9 

Who to Ship To— Special Notice. . 10-11 

Fruits— Strawberries 12 

The First Receipts 14 

To Strawberry Shippers 19 

Blackberries 20 

Black Raspberries 21 

Red Raspberries -Cherries . . . .23-24 

Gooseberries and Currants 25 

Gooseberries 27 

Nectarines— Apricots 27-28 

Whortleberries orHuckleberries 28 
The Damson Plum— Quinces... 29-30 
Grapes— The First Receipts.... 32-34 

Peaches— Pears -Plums 36-41-46 

Deciduous Fruits— Apples 48 49 

Special Notice 53 

Watermelons -Cantaloupes.... 54-57 

Oranges— Pineapples 59-61 

Grape Fruit, or Pomelo 63 

Tangerines and Mandarins 64 

PawpawsandPersimmons— Figs 64 
Japanese Persimmon-(Kaki) . . 65 

Mulberries— Pecans 65 

Kumquats 66 

Flowbks- Shipments of 68 

Cape Jessamine 68 

Miscellaneous Matters— 
About Irresponsible Houses — 70 

About Commissions 72 

Dividing Shipments 72 

The New Shipper T& 

Some Popular Errors 74 

The Drumming Quest ion 75 

Receivers Unjustly Blamed 76 

You Charged Me Too Much. . . . 77 

Slow Returns 77 

Hints to Shippers 78 

Transportation Charges 80 

Dried and Evaporated Fruits ... 82 
To Shippers of Dried Fruits — 82 

Evaporating 83 

Breaking Down the Market. ... 83 

About Distribution 84 

Benefit of Organizing. . . 86 

Good Missionary Work 90 



What of the Future 90 

Highland (Arkansas) Peaches.. 92 

The Apple Traffic 94 

Why the Commission Merchant 

Does Not Buy 95 

Vegetables— Cabbage 98 

Cucumbers— Green Peas — 102-105 
String Beans— Tomatoes — 108-112 

Texas Bermuda Onions 119 

Irish Potatoes 121 

Sweet Potatoes— Cauliflower 125-127 

Celery— Lettuce 129-131 

Damage and Loss to Shippers . . 133 

Beets— Asparagus 134-135 

SpringOnions,Leekand8hallots 136 
Radishes— Okara or Gumbo.. 137-139 

Egg Plants— Squash 140-141 

Horseradish— Peppers 142-143 

Spinach— Turnips 143-144 

Suggestions to Shippers 145 

LCss Important Vegetables 146 

Early Corn, Carrots, Parsley, 
Kohlrabi, Parsnips, Mustard 
Greens, Oyster-Plant or Sal- 
sify, Rhubarb, Etc 146 

Big Local Crops 147 

The Ever Changing and Shifting 

Conditions 147 

Give Them a Chance 148 

Prepay Your Telegrams 149 

Amount of Seed Necessary for an 
Acre and Number of Pounds to 

Bushel ••■ 150 

Number of Trees or Plants to the 

J^Ql'Q 151 

The Commission Houses 152 

Consigning vs. Selling F. O. B. . . . 152 
A Model Contract-Cow Peas. 157-158 
Approximate Time for Seed to 

Germinate 159 

Business Laws in Brief 160 

Poultry Raising Very Profitable. . 161 
The National League of Commis- 
sion Merchants 165 

Our Interests Mutual 169 

Uniform Package Legislation.... 173 

Distribution Too Expensive 176 

Mixed Cars 178 

Collecting for Loss or Damage. ... 178 
Would Rather Let Them Rot than 

Consign ••••• .. 179 

Co-operative Stores Best Distrib- 

uting Plan 180 

Poultry Raising Profitable 180 



Southern 
Fruits and Vegetables 
For Northern Markets 



WHAT TO GROW, HOW TO SHIP 
A ND PA CK, THE BEST V A RIE TIE 8, 
AND THE PRICES PREVAILING 
THROUGHOUT THE YEAR 
A VARIETY OF INFORMATION OF 
SPECIAL INTEREST TO SOUTH- 
ERN GROWERS AND SHIPPERS. 




By p; m. kiely, 

St. Louis, Mo. 



TO OUR PATRONS AND THE PUBLIC. 



<% 



From every Section of the South we are constantly re- 
ceiving ietters in relation to the shipping of fruits and veg- 
etables to this and other markets, the most profitable kinds 
to grow, how to pack and ship, the kind of packages re- 
quired, the prices prevailing throughout the year for the 
various articles, the names of good firms in other markets, 
and the great fund of information in connection with the 
trade, so important to everybody embarking in the busi- 
ness. As new parties are steadily going into business, we 
are besieged each season with the same questions. To sup- 
ply this information, in a concise and convenient form, we 
have published this pamphlet, believing it covers most of 
the questions usually asked. We gather the information 
given from forty-five years' experience in the business in 
this city, and also from what we have learned through 
years of business experience with prominent merchants in 
other leading markets, one of whom represents each 
leading city in this pamphlet, and we trust it will be 
of service to the many who will receive it. The present 
edition is a decided improvement on the many editions sent 
out during the past 30 years, and covers a wider field. 

P. M. KIELY & CO. 

CCU816L19 



The Spring Season. 



FORMER PUBLICATIONS. 

Nine years ago we published a pamphlet similar to the 
present work — printing an edition of 11,000 copies, to 
meet the demand for the work which now comes to us 
steadily throughout the year. Upward of 3,000 copies 
went out at once through our local agents in the South 
and by mail, to our patrons and the various parties through- 
out the Southwest seeking it. We reserved the remainder 
for new applicants, but found the supply about exhausted 
toward the spring of 1911. After that time the demand 
became quite general for the new edition, which we form- 
erly promised to issue every four or five years. 

The many new parties going into the business through- 
out the South, coupled with the warm endorsements of the 
work by the trade papers and agricultural journals, created 
a demand for it far beyond our expectation. Indeed, we 
find it is generally regarded by growers and shippers the 
most practical work they know of and usually held as a 
book of reference until the next issue was announced. The 
calls for it came from Florida, Louisiana, Mississippi, 
Texas, Georgia, Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, 
Illinois and occasionally from points further North and 
East, also from a few parties in Cuba and Mexico. We 
find now the work is looked for every five or six years, and 
we shall continue to print a new and improved edition 
that often. We know of no other work of the kind offered 
to the public. 

RETROSPECTIVE. 

In connection with our subject, a few words concerning 
the growth and history of the trade in this city will not be 



4 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

cut of place here. When the writer embarked in the busi- 
ness in this city,, in the fall of 1866, there was but one fruit 
commission house in St. Louis, and, indeed, one house was 
all that was then necessary to take care of what was con- 
signed here. All the Southern States, including Arkansas 
and Tennessee, were then unknown as shippers of fruits 
or vegetables. Southern Illinois was then the remotest 
point as a field for such supplies until the home crop ap- 
peared, and the fruit season was so short as to be of little 
value or interest. Since then dozens of houses have sprung 
up, many of whom we believe claim now to be the oldest 
and most experienced in the city. 

Each year new railroads opened up new fields and new 
territories, from which supplies began to come liberally, 
notably Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi, Alabama and 
Louisiana, with shipments from more Southern points later. 
Each year the season lengthened, until the present time, 
when we have an unbroken selling season of twelve months. 
The very extensive vegetable supply keeps coming here 
throughout the year. An increase of commission houses, 
to take care of this constantly growing trade was, of course, 
a natural result, and tended to develop and encourage the 
production throughout the South especially. 

THE FUTURE OUTLOOK. 

That there is a growing appreciation of fruit as an 
article of food, and very justly so, cannot be denied. The 
more fruit we consume the healthier we become as a people, 
and the less doctor bills we will have to pay. Fruit is health 
and therefore means happiness, and we enjoy immunity 
from disease in proportion to the amount of it we consume. 
The greatest fruit consuming people will always be found 
the healthiest. It is the born foe of dyspepsia, indigestion 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETb', 5 

and a variety of common ailments too numerous to mention. 
It prolongs life and thousands have escaped an early grave 
by turning to it instead of medicines for relief We have 
therefore far better results from the producers' efforts than 
can be measured from a financial standpoint. The fruit 
grower, in addition to being something of a public benefac- 
tor, finds some consolation in the fact that his calling, prop- 
erly and intelligently pursued, is remunerative, paying 
much better, in fact, than numerous undertakings, claiming 
more public attention, in which considerable capital must 
be invested before anything can be realized. It is not as 
uncertain or full of the elements of risks as many other 
enterprises are, and, therefore, is a more inviting field for 
industrious people and men of limited means. 

LOCATION— SHIPPING. 

You should aim to get as near the depot or shipping point 
as possible. Long hauls, especially over rough roads — un- 
pleasant features that many shippers cannot avoid — inflict 
on the fruit frequently very serious injury, especially if the 
art of packing for such emergencies is not thoroughly un- 
derstood. You are too often in a hurry and your fruit is 
shook up, and you haven't time to examine it at the depot. 
It is thrown pell-mell into the express car — any old way 
to get it in, as^ the conductor gives the agent only about 
half the time actually necessary to properly handle such 
goods. Later, when the returns come in, if they do not 
compare favorably with your neighbor's, who placed his 
fruit in better condition on the train before starting, the 
commission man "catches it," unless you devote a little time 
to reflection over the matter. If the receiv er writes and ex- 
plains, it may refresh your memory and make his offense 



6 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

less grievous, but if he does not do so, he will in most cases 
lose a customer. He is often too busy to do so. 

You will not, of course, attempt to carry strawberries or 
other tender fruits and vegetables to town or depot in a 
wagon without springs, and your goods must be protected 
from the hot sun, the dust of the roads, and the rain, by a 
waterproof covering that will afford ample protection. Suf- 
ficient time must be had when loading up, to handle care- 
fully, both at home and when the depot is reached. With 
these precautions properly observed, the prospects are that 
your fruit will reach the consignee in fair to good order. 

FREQUENT HANDLING FRUIT IS EXPOSED TO. 

The average shipper has no idea how often his fruit Is 
handled and moved about before it reaches the consumer, 
and therefore the importance of the most careful packing 
cannot be lost sight of. To illustrate, let us review the 
scene on the arrival of the fruit runs from the South — the 
five main runs arriving about the same time in the morning. 
Thus, five railroads, if on time, arrive within an hour in 
the morning — every one of them one to two hours too late 
for the early morning trade — always the best we have, say 
5 to 7 a. m. Unfortunately many of them are too often 
behind time and this adds to the confusion, delay and loss 
to all concerned. 

On arrival of trains at Union Depot, the Illinois Central, 
Mobile & Ohio, L. & N\, Iron Mountain, Cotton Belt, Frisco, 
the last three roads bringing the Texas shipments, Ex- 
press Companies back up their wagons to the express cars 
as soon as the doors are open. Sometimes the cars are 
switched directly to the express offices soon after arrival 
and the distribution made without so many handlings — 
but with so many express runs arriving about the same 



POB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 7 

time, and in a Union Depot, the work of delivery is too 
often provokingly slow. A dozen or more firms are rep- 
resented, and all are in a hurry and anxious to get off with 
the fruit, for their customers are at their stores up town 
waiting, and they do not want to miss the early sales — al- 
ways the best. In this car may be fruit from perhaps 20 
different shipping points, and from 50 or more shippers, in- 
tended possibly for 30 to 40 different firms, for this car 
may have shipments for various towns in Illinois, Iowa, 
Missouri, Nebraska ,etc. The outgoing trains will soon be 
ready and al lthis fruit must be hurriedly transferred, 
checked off and billed for its various destinations. The express 
employes, in their anxiety to keep these various lots from 
getting left, add to the confusion and' prolong the delivery 
to local receivers. All must be separated for the various 
parties and numerous firms here and elsewhere. Conse- 
quently rapid and occasionaly rough handling seems un- 
avoidable. When the wagons are loaded with small lots, 
as occasionally happens, they are taken to the express 
buildings, where the fruit is separated for the many firms 
whose wagons form a solid wreath around the platforms. 
It is lifted again and passed into all these wagons, receipt- 
ed for and driven off rapidly, and on reaching the com- 
mission houses the fruit has to be separated once more 
and credited up to the respective owners and shippers. 
After thus hurriedly handled ss often, it is ready for the 
purchaser's inspection. He throws it into his wagon once 
more with similar haste, and it is hurried off over the 
streets again and set down later for the inspection of the 
consumer; and it is safe to say, it could not be recognized 
now by the original owner — apart from his marks — unless 
the packing was of the best at the start. 
These are some of the features of the business that 



8 SOUTHERN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

should be calmly considered by the shipper, who, too often, 
jumps at the conclusion that he was robbed — that his fruit 
was first class, and must have opened up fine. 

Large shipments or car load lots do not, however, suffer 
to this extent, for such are usually loaded into the receiv- 
er's wagons and hauled direct to his store, or the express 
company's wagons will do the same when the amount 
reaches something near a load. Time and re-handling of 
fruit is thus saved to the large shipper. 

IN REGARD TO PACKING. 

Growers and shippers of fruit cannot realize, unless 
they were here to see it opened, how it injures the sale and 
depreciates the value of their goods to find inferior fruit 
mixed in, and covered up, in good fruit. Put in no inferior 
fruit of any kind. We know it is difficult to watch pickers 
\ihere a great many are engaged, especially inexperienced 
Lands, but the successful grower will take timely steps, 
whatever his hurry, to guard against such a serious mis- 
take. Topping off, putting on top all the good fruit in the 
box, is also a mistake, and its injustice must be apparent 
to the most indifferent. Let the surface represent a good 
average of the contents, but no effort should be made to 
practice a deception. It injures the man most who prac- 
tices it. 

Remember your name or stencil number is on the pack- 
ages, and the buyer commits to memory very readily the 
brand which deceived him. 

Some of the crooked brands are so well known in this 
market that it is difficult to find a buyer for them, even at a 
big reduction. Hvery dealer is trying to secure the best 
trade, which can only be accomplished by having nice, uni- 
form fruit. We repeat, let your fruit run straight and do 



FOB NOB THE BN MABKETS, 9 

not injure your reputation by trying to deceive anybody. 
Packing is a most important part of the business and can- 
not be studied too closely, and you cannot get out of the 
business what it is capable of yielding unless your packing 
is done as it should be. 

SOME FACTS TO CONSIDER 

During the hot weather when you commence shipping. 
Peas and beans, for instance, gathered in the sun when the 
thermometer registers 90 degrees in the shade, if packed 
immediately in a bushel box and put into the average hot 
car, will soon be heated„ to 100 degrees, and a few hours 
later fermentation and decay follows. Moisture is the sur- 
est agent to hasten fermentation, decay and loss, and it is 
very important that the goods — whether fruits or vegeta- 
bles^ — should be thoroughly dry, and the cooler you can get 
them the better the chances of their reaching their destina- 
tion in good order. They often encounter while in transit 
most unfavorable weather, such as close, cloudy, warm 
weather, accompanied by frequent showers, and unless the 
packing has been done under the most favorable conditions, 
goods will not arrive in good order under such circum- 
stances. A most careful observer states that the crushed 
leaves of the radish furnish moisture enough to ruin the 
goods in 24 hours if packed in a temperature of 75 degrees 
or upwards. Exclude from the goods before packed, all the 
heat and moisture possible, and your packing shed should 
be so located and constructed that it will catch every pass- 
ing breeze and allow the air to circulate freely, and thus 
carry off the surplus heat and moisture in the goods you are 
packing. 

On© error in packing, that is too frequently practiced, 
is that of nutting into the mm® package the vart&us grades, 



10 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

from green to- ripe or overripe fruits, etc. If you will pack 
and ship either too ripe or too green — which we do not ap- 
prove of — be sure to put them in separate boxes or pack- 
ages, so that one will not spoil the appearance or sale of 
the other. You must remember that the inevitable jarring 
and jolting the fruit is subject to while en route, whether 
berries, plums, tomatoes, peaches or pears, will cause the 
iiard ones to crush the soft ones, thus spreading the juice 
over all and spoiling the sale. You will therefore see the 
necessity of exercising proper precaution. 

Early in the season, when first shipments are made 
from the South, the weather is quite cool, and fruits reach 
us as green as when they left shippers' hands, and do not 
ripen or color up on the way, but shippers, in their anxiety 
to catch high prices, pick and ship indiscriminately, and 
thus injure the market on themselves and their neighbors. 

WHO TO SHIP TO. 

To handle fruit to advantage requires long experience 
and facilities which few commission houses possess. It 
can be readily seen that houses lacking experience, who 
receive such consignments only occasionally, are not pre- 
pared to do justice to shippers, or as well as those making 
a specialty of such products. A firm not regularly in this 
line of business sometimes receives a shipment when the 
market is weak and easily broken, and having no regular 
trade, may be compelled to sell under the market price, 
thus precipitating a general decline, which could be avoided 
had the goods been held by some house having a wide ex- 
perience and established trade. You will therefore see the 
necessity of shipping to an experienced firm, regularly in 
the trade. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 11 

SPECIAL NOTICE. 

We desire to say to shippers, especially the many new 
ones embarking in the business, that the prices received 
here for fruits and vegetables during the season of 1911 
were far above the usual quotations, due to the prolonged 
drouth in this and adjoining states, which almost destroyed 
iocal crops. The prolonged season of heat and drouth 
made crops not only very late, but very small. Hence good 
prices ruled throughout the past winter. Thus our mar- 
ket received car loads daily of such products from else- 
where as are usually plenty and cheap. The home 
crops, which generally crowd out all competition for a long 
time, were surprisingly small. Therefore, shippers every- 
where must not be led astray by the ruling quotations of 
the past year in all markets, most of which were affected 
by the great drouth which spread over such a large area, 
notably the Central West and Southwest. 

Before proceeding further, it is proper to state that the 
demand for cheap or inferior products, either fruits or 
vegetables, has fallen off to a wonderful extent the past 
five or six years. Of late years there has been very little 
demand for anything but first-class goods. In former years 
cheap goods were not so neglected. The peddlers and 
cheap class that formerly bought second-class products 
now look for better stock at better prices. Take Straw- 
berries, Tomatoes, Cucumbers, etc., which come in steadily 
during the winter and early spring, only strictly choice 
can be sold to advantage. Anything the least bit "off," 
either in quality or condition, is not wanted, because the 
peddlers and cheaper class do not take out such goods in 
winter. It is very difficult to place such even at half price 
or less. Shippers and growers should govern their actions 
accordingly. There is money only in the best stock. 
These remarks apply to all markets. 



12 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 



Iff" Ifc XJ I or «S ; 



STRAWBERRIES 

Are the first fruits of the season. Some 45 years ago they 
came to us with the genial atmosphere of spring, later with 
the raw winds of March, and now the snows and hard freez- 
ing of January. However, regardless of the weather, they 
are warmly welcomed by the epicure, the invalid and by 
more or less people with fat pocketbooks. Forty to forty- 
five years ago strawberries in this market were something 
of a luxury, the first receipts, always limited, bringing 
$1.50 to $2.00 a quart, figures that were not approached in 
later years. The season then was about six weeks in dura- 
tion. Now it is eight months from the first receipts from 
Florida until the final shipments from Northern Illinois, 
Michigan or Wisconsin. The strawberry has been steadily 
gaining in popularity and is the most deservedly popular 
fruit in the United States. It merits the patronage of ev- 
ery man, woman and child. No healthier fruit can be con- 
sumed. It is eminently the fruit for the millions, and now 
so extensively cultivated that it is within the reach of all. 
The "supply, rapidly as it has grown, has no more than 
kept pace with the demand. The many new railroads pene- 
trating every section have become the most important factor 
in the development of the business North and South and 
served to bring together, in every market, both the con 
sumer and producer. The re-shipments from here of the 
Southern product are very large compared to what they 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 13 

were years ago. St. Louis is rapidly "becoming, in con- 
sequence, a great distributing center, and now has ac- 
cess to a wide range of territory. Similar progress in the 
same direction has doubtless been made by other leading 
centers. 

More money has been made off: the strawberry than any 
other fruit, considering the time, labor and money involved, 
and it is likely to remain the most profitable. It represents 
more money to the acre, as well as more real profits, than 
perhaps any other product. Many of the Southern cultiva- 
tors in the various states growing considerable small fruits 
have long since passed the experimental stage, while a few 
became discouraged and dropped out to raise other crops. 

It proved a great relief to many of them to be relieved 
from the unprofitable labor of cotton raising on lands emi- 
nently adapted to fruit growing, and yet rather unproduc- 
tive and unfit for Southern staple products. There is still a 
great deal of such land, largely impoverished by the inces- 
sant strain of crop raising, that the fruit grower could ren- 
der remunerative by diligent effort. 

The strawberry crop rarely fails and never proves a total 
failure, as many other fruit crops do, except through gross 
negligence. Take St. Louis County, for instance, where 
the business is conducted very extensively, some 1,500 
acres, and no such thing as a failure of the crop has been 
recorded in the past 40 years. Occasionally the crop is 
light, through most unfavorable weather or other causes, 
but half a crop is the lowest estimate that can be recalled 
since the business began here in a small way 45 years ago. 
You will see, then, that the strawberry growers' invest- 
ment cannot be regarded in jeopardy, to the same extent 
as investments in most other avenues of trade; and, while 
there is not the alluring profits in the business that there 



14 SO UTHEBN FB UITS AND VEGE TABLES 

was many years ago, it must not be forgotten that the 
margins of profits in every line of business have declined 
and shrunk just as rapidly. 

THE FIRST RECEIPTS. 

For years Florida furnished the first berries of the sea- 
son, not only to this market, but to all other cities East 
and West, and she holds all these markets almost undis- 
turbed by rivalry for 2 or 3 months, getting, as might be ex- 
pected, much higher prices than any other state could hope 
to secure later on when ready for market. It is true, sales 
are limited in January or February, but with such a wide 
field for distribution and without any competition, save 
some light and irregular shipments from California or pos- 
sibly a few from Southern Texas near the Gulf coast, the 
various markets are evenly provided for, and prices sus- 
tained for a good while. The plan of distribution in Florida 
is admirable — good as could well be devised — growers be- 
ing organized at most points and operating through a sec- 
retary, who gets telegrams daily from each market. This 
uniform distribution, avoiding crowding at any point, 
affords great protection also to the isolated shipper who 
can safely ship to any market as long as the leading ship- 
ping points distribute so carefully. 

The first receipts each season reach here jast before 
Christmas from Florida. Very fine berries, neatly packed 
in quart baskets, and usually sold at 75 cents to $1 a quart, 
good prices, the Christmas and holiday demand being al- 
ways good. During January and February the receipts 
are usually heavy enough to satisfy all demands, ranging 
mainly at 35c to 50c per quart basket, according to weather 
conditions and amount of receipts. During February prices 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 15 

were mainly 25c to 40c ; occasionally when very scarce, as 
high as 50c. 

Towards March 1st the receipts are liberal, still mainly 
from Florida, but many cases are coming from Alvin, Dick- 
inson and League City, Southern Texas, and considerable 
from Louisiana — Klondykes in 24-pint cases — which are 
selling at. $2.50 to $3.00 for 24-pint cases. Texas, $3.50 to 
$4.50 for 6 gallon cases, and Ploridas, 25c to 30c quart. 

About 14th to 18th of March straight cars pint cases 
coming from Louisiana and selling at $1.75 to $2.25, as to 
quality and condition. First berries from Mississippi and 
Alabama ranging from $3.50 to $4.50 case 24 quarts, while 
Florida sells at 30c to 35c, very nice fruit, in good condition. 

March 20th, with more favorable weather, shows better 
prices. 

March 25th, Florida, 25c to 35c; Alabama and Mississippi, 
$4.00 to $5.00, and Louisiana, car pints sold at $2.75. Texas 
quart cases, $3.50 to $4.50. 

From the 25th of March to 1st of April we find the mar- 
ket higher, but few from Alabama, Mississippi or Texas, 
so Florida had larger offerings, 25 to 35 of her pony re- 
frigerators daily, selling much higher, 30c to 40c. 

By the 1st to 5th of April Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi 
and Alabama are shipping freely, and frequently much 
earlier. Argansas berries appeared the 3rd of April, about 
20 cases, and 75 cases on the 5th. The receipts steadily 
increased from there for four or five weeks till forced out 
by the usual big home crops here. West Tennessee starts 
a few days later, and with Arkansas, furnish the majority 
of the offerings for three or four weeks later. After this 
time the offerings are liberal and varied, and embrace all 
sorts of berries, from green to ripe, hard and soft, the 
poorest usually from the new shippers or those with lim- 



16 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

ited experience. The first week in April, Louisiana ber- 
ries (refrigerator cars) at $2.00 to $2.25 per three-gallon 
case. A good portion of the Florida receipts are now soft- 
er and smaller, showing the season drawing to a close. 
Texas berries very poor to medium, $2.50 to $3.00 per case 
— a few cases in good order, $3.00 to $3.50 per case (24 
quarts). Alabama receipts selling at $3.00 to $3.50 per 
case. Mississippi berries, poor condition account too much 
rain, $2.00 to $2.25 case. Arkansas $2.50 to $3.25. Tennes- 
see $2.25 to $3.00. Florida refrigerator stock has also a 
wide range, some being quite soft, due occasionally to de- 
lay en route and prices range from 10 to 15 cents per quart. 

From the 7th to the 14th of April the receipts run ir- 
regular. The fruit from many places is showing entirely 
too much rain, inflicting much injury and prices low in 
consequence. April 16th to the 20th we find Florida ber- 
ries disappear; Louisiana, $1.50 to $1.75 (three gallons, 
24 pints) ; Alabama, $3.00 to $3.75 per case (24 quarts) ; 
Mississippi, $2.75 to $3.50, and Texas express receipts $2.50 
to $3.50. During the past week Arkansas averaged two to 
three cars daily and Louisiana probably same, while other 
receipts combined averaged fully two cars daily — 6 to 7 
cars in all. Tennessee is represented occasionally also. 
For the next six days the market is somewhat irregular 
and uneven in prices, up and down alternately, according 
to the amount of receipts and their condition. Prices, 
however, show a lower average. 

From the 23d to the 26th of April we find that Arkansas 
and Louisiana are shipping in refrigerator cars — the Louis- 
iana stock getting so soft and overripe that they must 
discontinue. Mississippi express receipts continue selling 
at $2.00 to $2.50 for 24-quart oaaeti Arkansas gxprsgi re- 
ceipts $2.00 to $2.50, and refrigerator receipts about same 



FOB NORTHERN MARKETS. 17 

price. Alabama Klondykes $2.25 to $2.75. Tennessee has 
few hundred cases by express selling at $1.75 to $2.50. 
Texas at $1.75 to $2.25. 

By the 1st to 5th of May, Alabama, Arkansas, Tennessee 
and Mississippi are still in the market, although as a rule 
they have to pull out by this time and relinquish the mar- 
ket to states nearer this market. Latest receipts from the 
foregoing districts are too soft because of too much rain 
and prices on them would prove misleading. 

At this time Kentucky, Southeast Missouri, Southern Illi- 
nois, Tennessee and Eastern Arkansas are supplying most 
of the berries, and prices vary but little from the foregoing 
quotations, mainly $2.00 to $2.50 crate. 

You are not interested in the course of the market after 
this time, for a week later growers of St. Louis Country are 
fairly started and all outside shippers must retire. 

You will see from the foregoing where the fruit comes 
from when they begin, and who you will have to compete 
with as shippers as the season progresses. 

Our local crop of berries, usually very fine, is composed 
of a great number of varieties, which are shipped freely in 
every direction. The fruit comes in quart boxes in the 
regular six gallon (24 quarts) cases, in nice shipping order, 
and is largely consumed by the shipping order trade, go- 
ing out to outside markets in car lots. All fine fruit and 
carefully packed. 

In the Southern States, the Hoffman's Seedling, Cloud's 
Seedling, Charleston, Noonan and other sorts were prime 
favorites for years. Now, however, they are getting down 
to the Klondyke. Louisiana grows nothing else, and Flor- 
ida isa eonflaed mainly to Sxeelelor, Kl&ndyke and Minion* 
ary, a new variety. 



18 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

Mississippi, Alabama and Arkansas are drifting toward 
the Klondyke, and so is Tennessee. 

In this connection it might be said that the Florida 
berries as a rule reach their destination after such a 
long ride in fair to good order. Florida has steadily im- 
proved in varieties and shipping and packing and exercises 
the greatest care. She is using refrigerators nearly alto- 
gether, containing 64 to 80-quart baskets. 

The special paragraph elsewhere, in regard to packing 
should not be overlooked. 

In gathering the strawberry don't bruise it, but pinch 
off: the stem with your nails, one inch or so from the fruit. 
The least bruise starts the fruit to bleeding. Soon the 
fruit sours and its value for any purpose becomes impaired 
and its keeping qualities destroyed. Too many long stems 
displaying a lack of needed experience come in too often. 
Do not place in the box any green, over-ripe, stunted or 
otherwise injured fruit. A great many slack boxes come in 
— too many entirely. 

The Halleck quart box and crate should be discarded 
in favor of the Leslie. The Halleck package is air tight 
and the bottoms of the quart boxes drop out, or go down, 
too often, mashing the berries in the lower layer of 
boxes, and injuring the sale. Several Tennessee and Arkan- 
sas points have used a basket quart, meeting all the re- 
quirements of ventilation, and a crate equally favored in 
the matter of ventilation. Mississippi, too, used such a 
crate at a few places. There were clearly two sizes used, 
one of them being decidedly short measure. Florida uses 
the largest quart basket that comes to this market — big 
measure. 

Many shippers fear that rounding up the top of the 
basket or box will lead to bruising. This is a mistake, as 



FOB NORTHERN MARKETS. 19 

they settle down a good deal while in transit. They suffer 
much more when slack, for they soon settle down, become 
shook up, leaky and badly damaged. 

TO STRAWBERRY SHIPPERS. 

Before dismissing the strawberry subject we should 
have stated that in every instance the top layer of baskets 
in the crate show up badly on arrival, unless proper pro- 
vision is made against the removal or shaking up of the 
fruit while in transit. As you know, the railroad and ex- 
press hands generally ignore the delicate and perishable 
character of the fruit. No space must exist between the 
cover and the fruit. Baskets properly rounded up usually 
touch the cover when nailed down, gently pressing on the 
fruit. A few green leaves on the berries affords some pro- 
tection and lends a fresher and more inviting appearance 
on their arrival. Unless these provisions are properly rec- 
ognized it would be far better to have the top layer filled 
with empty baskets. The remainder of the fruit then would 
reach us in good order. The top layer in this bruised, 
bleeding and partly sour condition, injures the sale of the 
crate and would not by itself sell for more than half what 
any of the lower layers would bring. 

These remarks of course apply to small lots by express, 
in ventilated crates. It is wholly different with a car load, 
which. is not touched at all or exposed to rough handling 
while enroute. 

The refrigerator boxes are also in a measure protected 
against much injury, yet the top layers suffer more or less 
occasionally by getting wet and shook up and bruised, yet 
of the past few years showed considerable improvement 
and most of the fruit reached us in fair to good order. 



20 SOUTHEBN FBTJITS AND VEGETABLES 

BLACKBERRIES. 

Do not figure very extensively among the shipments from 
the South. 

Strangely enough, receipts have been steadily declining 
instead of increasing during the past 10 years — outside of 
home-grown berries the crop is badly damaged occasionally 
by severe weather. It is not a good shipping fruit, and a 
portion of the consignments arrive in bad order. Black- 
berries, under certain conditions, become sour while in 
transit during the night — though we have seen berries out 
36 to 40 hours from Texas by express which arrived in fair 
order. The very hot weather that usually accompanies the 
maturing of this fruit is the worst feature it has to con- 
tend with. We would not, therefore, advise extensive plant- 
ing by parties far away from market. Arriving, as it al- 
ways does, when the market is crowded with strawberries, 
it rarely brings any fancy price outside of first receipts. 
The fruit, however, is attractive, and sells readily if it can 
be placed before the purchaser in nice condition. It is 
rather soft and tender, easily bleeds and soon thereafter 
sours. The receipts of late years have been rather small 
from all sources. 

The first receipts were unusually late last season, the 23d 
of May, coming from Mississippi, selling at $2.50 case, 24 
quarts. That's nearly a month later than the usual first 
receipts. The first frequently comes from Texas. 

The receipts by the 26th of May were from Alabama, Ar- 
kansas and Mississippi, and prices $2.50 to $2.75 crate, fruit 
coming in fair condition. 

Along towards the 1st of June the market is supplied by 
several States and a wide range of prices seen, according 
to condition, and the figures $2.00 to $2.50 per case (24 
quarts). From the 5th to the 15th of June prices are a 



FOB NOB THEBN MABKE TS. 2 1 

trifle lower. Homegrown appeared, selling at $2.75, while 
the range on wild and poor order stock from elsewhere 
sold from $1.50 to $2.00 per case. Some shipped cultivated 
berries sold at $2.25 to $2.75. Later on shipments went still 
lower. Southern Illinois, Arkansas and Mississippi con- 
tinued to ship by express till the 15th, when homegrown 
began freely, excluding all other shippers. 

The Lawton, an old standard variety, was formerly one 
of the best, its only fault being that it is a little tender and 
gets killed too often in this latitude. The Kitatinney is in 
a measure taking its place, being quite hardy and very 
productive, but the fruit is not so large. There are sev- 
eral others highly recommended, such as Early Harvest, 
Kittatinney and Taylor. 

The strawberry caseis the most suitable package. They 
should be gathered just as soon as fairly colored — while 
yet firm. If permitted to get fully ripe, or soft, will soon 
sour, the least jarring or rough handling starting them to 
bleeding and scattering the juice, which sours the whole lot 
in a few hours. Get descriptive catalogues from reliable 
nurseries, which usually furnish a good many pointers about 
care, cultivation, varieties, etc. 

BLACK RASPBERRIES 

Have been slowly but steadily disappearing from our mar- 
ket. The supply of late years has been rather light, though 
20 to 30 years ago immense quantities came in from this 
vicinity. At present, however, the people are devoting their 
attention to something else, for the strawberries became so 
abundant and cheap in the market of late years that the 
profitable opening for black raspberries vanished. The 
first offerings last season were home-grown, 24-pint cases, 
selling at $1.00 to $1.20 from the 14th to 20th June. Later 



22 SOTJTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

they declined somewhat with increased offerings. By the 
25th they are higher, $1.25 to $1.35, but on the 1st of July 
they are gone for the season. 

We cannot urge any extended cultivation of the black 
raspberry, because the demand is not very general at 
best, and coming in contact with the immense strawberry 
supply at the time in every market, it is not sought for 
by many, as is the more attractive and luscious straw- 
berry. It is true we have some demand from the pre- 
serving establishments, but their prices do not offer much 
encouragement. There is some order trade for it, too, but 
shipments of black raspberries from a distance are rarely 
such as would fill the bill, and free shipments of it do 
not begin until the local crop — usually large and fine — be- 
gins to come. We believe, however, it can be profitably 
grown for drying or evaporating purposes, prices for such 
being usually good. They are grown at some points in 
Arkansas for evaporating purposes, while some are also 
shipped. 

The Gregg and Miami black caps were for years the 
best sorts, but something better may be offered by this 
time. They appear usually in about two weeks after the 
blackberry, although last year did not show up till the 1st 
of June. They open as a rule at 40 to 60 cents per gallon 
according to circumstances, and gradually decline to 10 
cents per quart and occasionally to 5 cents, when the sea- 
son is at its height, from the 5th to the 10th of July, when 
the home-grown were well started. 

For long shipments the pint box and three-gallon case 
(24 pints) should be used, though parties within a few 
hours' ride of the market could use quart boxes and six- 
gallon crates. When picking the greatest care should be 
exercised not to bruise them, for the berries carelessly 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 23 

handled in picking and packing will show it in their con- 
dition very soon afterwards. Last year the crop was unus- 
ually light and therefore prices averaged better than usual. 

RED RASPBERRIES. 

are a prime favorite with all lovers of fruit, and yet have 
been somewhat overlooked by the average fruit grower 
south of us. Southern Illinois used to grow them in abun- 
dance, but the past few years they were rather scarce and 
paid well until the home crop appeared. They usually came 
to this city in pint boxes, in neat, flat, 3-gallon cases (124 
pints), which are the proper packages for this delicious but 
delicate fruit. They do not stand long shipments. Arkan- 
sas or West Tennessee is as far south as we would sug- 
gest growing for this market. 

Because of the prolonged drouth last summer, May, June, 
July and August, the first red raspberries offered were home- 
grown, appearing on the 6th of June, 24-pint cases, which 
sold at $2.50. They remained unchanged till the 9th, 
when Illinois, Tennessee and Arkansas started and prices 
dropped to $2.00. A few days later they declined to $1.75 to 
$2.00. From the 14th to the 16th only home-grown are of- 
fered. The previous year the first came in from South- 
ern Illinois, $1.50 to $2.00 for 24-pint cases. 

Mississippi grows considerable of them for the New 
Orleans and other Southern markets, and profitably, it is 
said. 

When the receipts become large the canning estab- 
lishments here are the most liberal buyers we have — their 
figures, according to supplies on market, quality and con- 
ditions of fruits, are from 30 to 40 cents a gallon, but this 
in the middle of the season, when they are most abundant! 



24 SOTJTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

say from the middle to the latter part of June, when the 
home-grown crop is coming. 

CHERRIES 

Are not always a profitable crop south of this latitude. Al- 
though we have had some shipments out of West Tennes- 
see last season that brought fine prices for a week or so, 
$4.00 case (24 quarts). Northern Illinois shipments brought 
high prices also. Later Colorado shipped dozens of car 
loads to various markets that brought good prices, $2.50 to 
$3.00 for 24-quart cases. June found our markets almost 
bare, hence the nice figures received. The cherry tree, 
being perfectly hardy, thrives in all the Northern States 
in good soil and it is not adapted to a warm climate. 
The finer varieties, which embrace the Mazzards, Hearts 
and Biggareaus, do not flourish in either the West or 
South, owing principally to the injury inflicted on the bark 
or trunks of the trees by the hot sun of mid-summer. The 
Dukes and Morelloes are less susceptible to climate in- 
fluences, are smaller and hardier, and the fruit being more 
acid, embrace some of the features that make it a better 
keeper and shipper; hence they are better adapted to the 
West and South. Illinois and Missouri furnish most of the 
cherries consumed here. The greatest enemies to the 
business in this section are the birds, who, if permitted, 
eat most of them. A boy with a shotgun to keep off the 
birds for two weeks is essential to success around here. 

The first receipts generally reach here from the 10th 
to the 16th of May, from Tennessee, Arkansas and South- 
ern Illinois, selling at $2.50 to $3.00 per case (24 quarts) — 
Early May variety. The prices generally decline gradually 
the two weeks following, but then the Illinois and Mis- 
souri shippers are forwarding quite freely and the price 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 25 

soon declines to $1.50 to $2.00 per case, and, later, when 
the growers in this vicinity get to picking, the price is 
down to 25 to 30 cents per gallon, which is generally the 
lowest they reach at any time. Last year's first receipts 
came from Tennessee on the 8th of May, and sold at $4.00. 
By the 12th they are $3.00 to $3.50, still from Tennessee. 
Prom the 15th to the 20th but few outside of Tennessee and 
Southern Illinois and Kentucky, and the sales at $3.00, and 
by the 25th home grown appeared. After this you are no 
longer interested in the market, which steadily declines till 
the offerings are heavy about the 1st of June, when prices 
are $1.50 to $2.00 per case, 24 quarts. California cher- 
ries, very fancy stock, also begin coming at this time, and 
continue rather steadily and sell at double the price the 
native stock brings. 

In damp, cloudy weather cherries decay very rapidly after 
reaching maturity; some of the sweet varieties, especially, 
go very quickly. 

Both sour and sweet sorts are often permitted to get 
too ripe before picking. 

Of course, the stem should be left attached to the fruit, 
since it not only fills the box much more readily in this 
way, but keeps the berries from bleeding and becoming sour 
afterwards, thereby spoiling the sale of them. Never gath- 
er cherries without the stems. Cherries come to us occas- 
ionally from as far south as Mississippi. Every fruit grow- 
er should have at least a few trees for home use if noth- 
ing more. The strawberry boxes or crates or drawers 
should be used for them. 

GOOSEBERRIES AND CURRANTS 

Receive little attention at the hands of Southern shippers. 



26 SOUTBEBN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

The climate is not so well adapted to their culture as it is 
further north. Some have tried them no doubt, but with 
what success we have not learned. We consider each 
worthy of trial to some extent, at least, for local consump- 
tion if nothing more. It would pay well to get either in 
here ahead of local growers. Currants are not grown ex- 
tensively in this section, though the prices are usually 
good throughout the season. Currants, the local crop, 
were scarce in this market the past 10 or 12 years, and very 
little came from outside points. 

Our market is supplied with currants mainly from North- 
ern Illinois, Onargo, Galena, Albany and Mattoon. Indiana 
ships considerable here also. Later Michigan ships here 
for some time in 16-quart cases, ranging from $1.50 to 
$2.00, usually about $1.75 case. Iowa ships still later. It 
must be admitted, however, that receipts from there and 
elsewhere are steadily growing smaller. Strawberry boxetst 
and crates are adapted to both in shipping.' 

Currants flourish best in a cool shady or partly shaded 
locality, such as north side of fences, in a deep, rich soil. 
They grow successfully in this locality and ought to suc- 
ceed further south. The Red and White Dutch varieties 
have been best. Some newer varieties may be better. 
Use the same package as for gooseberries, quart boxes. 
They were ready sale all last season, Delng unus- 
ually scarce throughout, ranging from 35 to 60 cents per 
gallon, mainly at 45 to 60 cents, according to quantity in 
market. As a rule very few can be had in this market until 
the home-grown come in. The first receipts last season 
were home-grown and came in on the 10th of June, selling 
at 40 to 45 cents. 24 quart cases $2.25 to $2.50. Later, 
when outside shipments came, declined to* $2.00 case. 



FOB NOBTHEBN MARKETS. 27 

GOOSEBERRIES 

Were not cheap or plenty in this market last year, and the 
market was nearly bare until home-grown appeared, on the 
22nd of May, selling at $1.75 to $2.00 per case, 24 quarts. 
The first receipts are noted from Arkansas on the 9th of 
May, selling at $2.00 per case of 24 quarts. By the 25th 
the market has considerable of home-grown and prices to 
$1.75 to $2.00 per six-gallon case — season at its height and 
all home-grown. 

The market is injured very much by frequent ship- 
ments of half or partly grown berries, which soon shrivel 
up and get discolored and worthless. 

Houghton's Seedling and Downing have been the best 
varieties, Downing much the largest. Other new and bet- 
ter sorts may now be offered by nurserymen. 

The large foreign gooseberries do not thrive in this 
country — all mildewing very regularly in this climate. 

They heat in a short time in barrels or sacks, often in 
less than 24 hours, and should be shipped in drawers, 
baskets or strawberry cases, 24 quarts. They stand ship- 
ping so well is one good inducement to plant. Ship when 
full grown, before they commence getting brown. 

NECTARINES 

Are entirely neglected by the fruit growers patronizing 
this market. Indeed they are something of a novelty 
here. When they do appear, however, they are rather slow 
sale at 50 to 70 cents per peck box, being comparatively 
unknown. The nectarine is simply a peach with a smooth, 
glossy skin, devoid of the fuzz of the peach, but its smooth 
surface unfortunately seems to attract the attention of the 
curculio, which preys upon it, and is no doubt largely re- 



28 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

sponsible for its absence from our markets. We believe, 
however, it has not been given a fair show by the fruit 
growers, or we would see more of the fruit. About the 
only fruit of this kind offered here last season, or pre- 
vious years, came from California. 

APRICOTS 

Ripen three or four weeks before peaches do, and would 
strike a splendid market on this account, and it meets with 
much more favor than the nectarine here. It is, however, 
too much neglected and its great enemy, too, is the cur- 
culio, which attacks the plum, a fruit the apricot much re- 
sembles, partaking of its character and habits, and success- 
fully attacked by the sameinsects. The apricot is budded 
on seedling apricots, and also on peach and plum stocks, 
the latter preferable, being longer lived. The apricot ap- 
pears to be a cross between tUe plum and the peach, but 
from a scientific point is not. A few come in from this 
county occasionally and find willing buyers at 50 to 75 cents 
per peck box, but: very seldom, however, can any be found 
here. Pine apricots, however, were offered here steadily 
last season for nearly two months — all California stock. 
The receipts from the far West stand up well for a long 
time, disclosing keeping qualities that the fruit grown here 
is destitute of. 

WHORTLEBERRIES OR HUCKLEBERRIES 

Come to us quite freely every year, especially from Arkan- 
sas and southwest Missouri, where they grow wild. They 
usually sell well at $3.00 to $3.50 per case of 24 quarts, but 
iast year the very meager offerings indicated a partial 
failure of the crop throughout the territory tributary to 
this market, and neither did we receive much from the 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 29 

North. Hence prices were higher than usual, $3.50 to $4.00 
per case of 24 quarts. A good many are sent in only partly 
ripe, and often mixed, some green and some ripe. GREEN 
ONES ARE UNSALEABLE AND HAVE TO BE DUMPED 
— therefore never ship them — while the mixed sell accord- 
ing to amount of ripe ones in the package. Only straight 
ripe or fully colored should be shipped, as it is difficult to 
sell the mixed * or partly ripe. In fact, ship only ripe 
ones and nothing else. The first receipts usually ar- 
rive about the 20th of May, but last year did not 
appear until June 1st. The berries are so small and smooth 
they run out of the cases easily unless fully protected. 
Good heavy paper around the inside of the crates afford 
considerable protection against such leakage. 

THE DAMSON PLUM, 

We believe, has never been properly tested or given a fair 
show by the fruit growers generally of this section or the 
South, and I doubt whether any other plum will pay near 
as well in the territory tributary to this market. Very 
hardy and productive, and enjoying, as it does, immunity 
from insect enemies, and, in addition to these, marked ad- 
vantages, the best shipper of all — it is more than surpris- 
ing that it should be so overlooked. It thrives on neg- 
lect, yields a half to a full crop almost as regularly and 
surely as the apple orchard does, and being long lived and 
content to flourish in out of the way places and fence cor- 
ners, it appeals strongly to the fruit grower for recognition 
The market, moreover, is never glutted, seldom sells below 
40 cents per peck box or baskets, and more frequently 
ranges from 50 to 60 cents, and comes through successful- 
ly in boxes, baskets or hampers. Barrels, however, are 



30 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

too large packages. Most of them come here, however, in 
half bushel chip baskets. It should be gathered when full 
grown and fully colored, before it gets mellow, and it will 
then be safe for several days' shipment. It makes a 
most delicious preserve, and is purchased freely for this 
purpose, not only by hundreds of private families, but by 
the many preserving establishments here. A mistake that 
is frequently made is that of letting it get too ripe, ai?d 
it often gets in bad order being held too long for ship- 
ment. The first arrivals last season were a week later 
than usual, being home grown, appearing July 25th. They 
were in half bushel chip baskets selling at $1.00 to $1.10 a 
basket. July 27th and 28th higher, selling at $1.25 or $2.50 
a bushel. By August 4th, $1.00 to $1.25. By the 10th of 
August they are plenty, heavy offerings from outside points 
and selling 75 to 85 cents a half bushel basket. Market 
continues steadily and unchanged till the 25th, when they 
are selling at 80 cents to $1.00. Michigan is now shipping 
in bushel baskets which are selling at $2.25, being larger 
and firmer than the local crop. Prom the 5th to 10th 
of September, New York is also shipping. Michigan and 
New York a little lower and home grown are getting too 
ripe and soft, and all show some decline; but you are no 
longer interested in Damsons. 

QUINCES. 

There is little demand in this market for the quince un- 
til the heated term is passed. Being purchased, only for 
preserving purposes. They are somewhat neglected until 
toward the 1st of October. Most of the preserving is at- 
tended to in October and November. This suits the pro- 
ducers within a radius of 100 miles or so from this market, 



FOB NOB THEBN MABKE TS. 31 

but the more southern territory finds this too late for their 
shipments, which mature some weeks earlier. However, 
prices during the latter part of August and early in Sep- 
tember, the first receipts, usually average from $1.50 to 
$1.75 per bushel. 

During October the market is often supplied by New 
York and other eastern points, and the prices generally 
S3.00 to $4.00 barrel, as to sizeof crop or offering here. 
They were scarcer than usual last season. 

If the fruit is gathered carefully and kept entirely free 
from bruises, and laid away in the coolest places acces- 
sible to the grower, in the absence of cold storage, they can 
be kept successfully for several weeks. Quinces come here 
with pears and other fruits every year from California, 
wrapped in paper, in three-peck boxes. 

As few fruit growers pay any attention to the quince, 
it is usually a profitable crop if disposed of before the East- 
ern crop gets here. 

In the West and South the few trees planted have been 
too much neglected, and as a result many of the trees have 
become stunted and barren. 

The soil for the quince should be deep and rich, such as 
will raise good corn and potatoes, and should be kept well 
cultivated. I have rarely seen a quince tree in my travels 
that was not stunted and full of suckers, the usual evidence 
of neglect. The small, crooked, stunted and specked ones 
should be kept at home. 

They can be packed in half or bushel boxes, hampers 
or baskets, also in barrels, and can be shipped by freight 
when the express charges come too high. When full 
grown, but before they color up much, gather and ship 
them. This will afford an opportunity to hold for a while 
or to reship if necessary. 



32 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

GRAPES. 

Grape growing south of this latitude has not received 
the attention that the business merits. Instead of increas- 
ing, the business has been on the decline for years. 
Those that have fairlytried it, we think, have made it pay 
fairly well. Prom what we have received from the dif- 
ferent states south of this latitude, we think that Moore's 
Early, Ives' Seedling, Concord and Delaware are the varie- 
ties that will produce the most money. Of course, several 
other varieties might be profitably raised. For a white 
grape plant the Niagara. For 40 years Norton's Virginia 
Seedling has been regularly sought for wine making. It 
has almost disappeared in this section, much to the regret 
of parties who seek it every season for the splendid wine 
it makes. 

One of the most experienced growers in the State of Ar- 
kansas informed me some years ago that the three varie- 
ties for that State were, in his judgment, Moore's' Early, 
Ives' Seedling and the Delaware. The Ives has little claim 
except for its earliness. The Stark Eclipse is regarded 
very highly by many who pronounce it the best of all 
early sorts. We disclaim any intention of doing injustice 
to the many newer varieties that are offered, some of 
which may possibly prove more profitable than the va- 
rieties well known to us; to the matter of testing, etc., 
rests with the grower. 

The Worden and the Brighton, both well known in the 
east, early sorts and attractive looking, but they are too 
perishable — don't stand up long after being shipped. The 
Concord is the one for the people, especially for commercial 
purposes. The Muscatine, a coarse, thickskinned, dark 
brown, foxy variety, and a few others of similar charac- 



FOB NOB THE BN MABKETS. 33 

ter, come occasionally from the South, but they are al- 
most unsalable here, so don't ship them. 

The injury so frequently inflicted on the crop in this 
vicinity by late frosts and severity of midwinter, discour-' 
aged so many grape growers that we look for little from 
them in the future. In fact, within a radius of 100 miles 
of this city the business has been on the decline, and far 
from what it was 30 years ago, when Missouri promised to 
become a great grape growing state, and when a number of 
confident and enthusiastic growers were making extensive 
arrangements for the future. The local crop, v/nich sup- 
plies this market liberally for a few weeks, does not really 
constitute one-tenth of the grapes sold here every season. 
We hardly regard the grape season as fairly open noy un- 
til Michigan and Ohio begin early in September, being 
nearly two weeks earlier than New York. After New York 
and Pennsylvania gets started then the season is at its 
height and the magnitude of the grape traffic is in evidence. 
The annual receipts now from New York, Ohio, Michi- 
gan and Pennsylvania range from 400 to 500 cars — 3,000 
8-pound baskets to the car. Grapes are gradually disap- 
pearing in Ohio — not half the crop of former years 

Among the New York and Michigan grapes were some 
of the Niagara and Pocklington, the best white grapes of- 
fered. However, with the season at its height and prices 
within the reach of all, 25 baskets of Concords could be sold 
for every one of white grapes, even if prices were the 
same. It is true white varieties sell higher when first on 
the market, but the demand is limited and hence we say 
plant sparingly of the white varieties. The Brighton and 
Worden varieties, well-known early sorts in the East, are 
too perishable for distant markets, and should be grown 
only for local markets. The Martha and Elvira, which have 



34 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

had their day, are now badly neglected and not wanted lor 

either wine or table. 

To our Southern friends who intend planting Niagaras or 
white varieties, we say, go slow, or you may have occasion 
to regret it. It is true many of the Eastern markets have 
paid fancy prices for white grapes, but they were very 
scarce at such times and purchased mainly as a novelty, 
or for display among other sorts. Dealers purchase but 
very few at a time in any market. The market is easily 
overcrowded with white grapes. Each year the Concord 
develops a greater following. The very hot weather which 
every southern shipment encounters en route to any mar- 
ket, is the most discouraging feature every shipper must 
face. 

THE FIRST RECEIPTS 
Last year appeared the 8th of July, three weeks later than 
usual, and came from Alabama. They were packed in 
4,basket crates— Niagaras, also black varieties— about 
16 pounds net, selling at 75 cents a crate. A week later 
receipts largely from Arkansas and Oklahoma, 4-basket 
crates, Ives 50 cents, white sorts, 60 to 70 cents, and 
Moore's Early, 70 to 80 cents. The first week in July Cali- 
fornia grapes are in the market, different varieties, and 
selling at $1.00 to $1.25 per 4-basket crate (20 lbs.). Later 
only baskets of 8 pounds are coming, packages that help 
the sale of the grape if fruit is properly packed. Occas- 
ionally we find berries dropping off the stems— some over- 
ripe, soft and leaky, much lower, the very hot weather 
affecting them. Arkansas is shipping considerable in 8- 
pound boxes-her Ives selling at 40 to 45 cents per box. 
July 20th home-grown appeared, Moore's Early in open 
chip baskets, about 20 lbs., selling at 70c to 90c, as to 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 35 

quality, condition, etc. They gradually decline for the fol- 
lowing two to three weeks, by which time they are down to 
40 to 50 cents. 

August 5th to 10th Alabama, Mississippi, Tennessee, 
Georgia and Texas offerings among the receipts and prices 
declined some. At this time, however, homegrown are com- 
ing freely and you are no longer interested in the mar- 
ket, as prices become too low. 

Only fully colored or ripe grapes should be shipped. 
Cut off the green or partly green, rotten, shriveled, dried 
or otherwise imperfect fruit. All should be cut out careful- 
ly with a pair of scissors before packed. The regular 8- 
pound basket, formerly 9-pound, that used by the New 
York, Michigan and Ohio grape growers, known as climax 
basket, is the package that should be universally used. 

To Southern shippers we will say that grapes come in 
good order, also, in flat 10-pound boxes, when properly 
packed. If loosely packed, or in such a manner that any 
of the grapes can be displaced or moved while in transit, 
they will not reach here in good shape. The bunches should 
be laid carefully, in rows like peaches. At the top let the 
cover press down sufficiently to hold firmly all the bunches 
in their places. When the cover is removed on arrival 
here no stems should be in sight, only a smooth surface 
of grapes should appear. In packing let the stems be 
downward. The fruit should be handled as little as pos- 
sible, so as to protect the bloom that covers the grape. 
Packing in quart boxes, in six-gallon cases, should be avoid- 
ed. The fruit has to be handled too much and the bunches 
are not such size as will fill the boxes to advantage. Three 
to 5-pound boxes, in crates or frames, are also sometimes 
used. The 5-pound baskets would be found most profit- 
able, especially if the fruit is fine, for many of these early 



36 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

shipments. The basket is the proper package for the 
grape, and early in tlK season, long before needed, corres- 
pond with some leading establishment and ascertain the 
kinds offered and cost of same. 

We repeat, you have a long and fairly protable sea- 
son in most of the Western markets before you are dis- 
turbed by competition. The keeping qualities of the grape 
is one of the important features to consider. The Ohio 
and New York grape shippers can hold their grapes in 
buildings prepared for that purpose— cool or cold storage 
apartments, etc.— three to five weeks, or until a better mar- 
ket appears, and then ship when the best prices prevail. 

The strongest competition New York, Ohio, Pennsylva- 
nia and Michigan found here the past two years, came 
from the California shippers, who are sending car loads to 
our auctions daily. The California stock is so attractive 
it appeals strongly to all consumers and certainly hurts 
eastern shippers in all the big markets. California is so 
handicapped by heavy freight charges, she can hardly af- 
ford to enlarge her already large acreage unless for wine 
making. 

PEACHES 
The peach business has undergone somewhat of a revo- 
lution. Fifteen or 20 years ago the culture of early sorts 
only was considered south of this latitude, especially in Ar- 
kansas and Tennessee, and many lareg orchards were plant- 
ed about that time; the unprofitable Hale's Early and other 
early kinds almost as bad figuring extensively in the se- 
lected list. The early sorts not only failed to pay, but in 
many cases it would have paid the grower to let them 
rot on the' trees. Still the shippers thought they would 
give them another chance, but additional experience with 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 37 

these earliest varieties convinced the growers it was best 
to condemn every tree. It is safe to say that most of the 
shipments were consumed by the express charges. A 
rooting out of these very early sorts followed to a bene- 
fical extent and the past ten years showed the wisdom of 
the step. While a few trees might do for local use, for 
commercial purposes they have been a failure. 

It will be seen, then, that the former plan will have to 
be reversed, as it is the medium to late varieties that pay, 
because the market is full of peaches before your earliest 
varieties get in. The Troth's Early, or the season of its 
ripening, is early enough, and those varieties maturing 
before that don't pay. They are entirely too perishable in 
their character, and warm, rainy, cloudy weather affect 
their appearance and condition in a few hours, and the 
shaking up they get by the many handlings they are neces- 
sarily subject to, assist in rendering them unsightly if 
not unsalable in a short time. 

Years ago, when Missouri and Illinois were growing more 
peaches than they are now, they were the great competi- 
tors of the more southern shippers, and the Arkansas, 
Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee and Kentucky 
growers realized their only hope was in early shipments, 
since the advantage of the season, or earliness in maturing, 
gave them the field for at least several weeks, and hence 
the great field of early sorts. 

The uncertainty of the peach crop in this vicinity through 
severe weather occasionally in winter and spring, offers 
to more southern cultivators, where the crop does not fail 
so often, some inducements to plant more peaches. In fact, 
while there is nothing so uncertain here as a peach crop, 
yet occasionally we have a crop several years in succession, 
still we cannot recall any former period in the past 45 year® 



38 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

when there was so many failures as within the past 8 or 9 
years. However, these frequent failures makes the fu- 
ture more promising for growers elsewhere patronizing 
this market. 

In regard to varieties, it is very difficult to arrange a 
list to suit such a wide range of territory, so we will not 
attempt to name one. A list in Southern Illinois may not 
meet the approval of a Texas, Mississippi or Alabama 
grower, and Arkansas might select a list differing from 
that needed in any other state. Yet on one variety, the El- 
berta, all agree as to its value for commercial purposes. 
It must be admitted, however, that too much space and 
prominence is given to this one variety. There is a gap, 
for instance, of a month or more following the disappear- 
ance of the Elberta when the market is almost bare. Two 
are three good varieties should come in right here. The 
Belle of Georgia is a famous variety well worthy of recog- 
nition. Poole's Favorite, late freestone, 3 weeks later than 
Elberta, introduced by A. W. Poole, Ozark, Ark., a fa- 
mous peach grower, who has given to the public many new 
and valuable varieties should be considered. 

Elberta, cling, introduced by Stark Bros. Nursery Co. 
of Louisiana, Mo., a firm famous for introducing many 
new and valuable varieties of fruits, should not be for- 
gotten. The Krummel is widely endorsed, especially in 
the far West states as the finest of all October peaches. 

There are so many new varieties constantly coming out 
and advertised that any list named would soon need re- 
visions, and hence will not suggest one. GOOD SIZE, 
GOOD COLOR AND KEEPING OR SHIPPING QUALITIES 
ARE THE GREAT ESSENTIALS TO SUCCESS, and the 
majority should be free stone. Among the earlier sorts 
don't overlook Early Wheeler, Arp Beauty and Slappy— • 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 39 

all well known in the South — Mamie Ross also should be 
among the early list. 

The first receipts of the season for some years were 
from Florida, but the past several years either Alabama, 
Mississippi or Texas sent in the first of the season, fol- 
lowed soon by Arkansas and then Tennessee. 

First receipts last year were from Arkansas, May 23rd, in 
1-3 bushel boxes, w T hich sold at 75 cents, and 4-basket crates 
which sold for 85c. For several days prices were un- 
changed, Arkansas and Oklahoma furnishing a majority of 
the offerings. 

The 29th of May the Daily Price Current reads: 

Peaches — Offerings freer, today's receipts including 
about 250 crates (by express) from Oklahoma — early wheel- 
er variety of good size and quality, but some showing spots; 
sales at from 85c to $1.25 per 4-basket crate. Arkansas 
early bales dull at 40c to 50c per 1-3 bu. box and 50 @ 60c per 
4-basket crate. 

The 5th to 12th of June the receipts are big, largely in- 
ferior. Here is the Price Current report June 15: 

Peaches — Large high-colored fruit scarce and in demand; 
current light arrivals mainly small-sized and of poor color. 
Quote Arkansas 4-basket crates at 65 @ 75c, and 6-basket 
crates at $1.25® 1.50; Tennessee 4-basket crates sold at 65 @ 
75c and Southern Illinois do at 75 @ 85c. 

Here are the quotations for June 20th: 

Peaches — Receipts light and good-sized high-colored in 
demand. Small car Arkansas Mamie Ross offering — selling 
at $2.75 per 6-basket crate. Otherwise, Arkansas 4-basket 
crates ranged from 60c to $1.00; Tennessee 4-basket crates 
75 @ 90c; 6-basket crates at $1.25 and 1-3-bu. boxes at 60c. • 

It would be proper to add here that the actual sales and 
returns usually average a trifle better than these price cur- 



40 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

rent or regular wholesale figures, outside or best prices 
are rarely quoted, being scarce and unusual. On the 27th, 
a week later, here is the market: 

Peaches — Receipts fair in amount, including considerable 
Home-grown. Sound large high-colored fruit in fair de- 
mand; small, hard, specked, etc. dull. Quote express re- 
ceipts Missouri and Arkansas 4-basket crates at 60c to 75c; 
Tennessee 6-basket crates at 75c to $1.25 and flat crates 
50c to 75c and 1-3-bu. boxes at 50® 60c. Arkansas Mamie 
Ross (fancy, received in refrigerator car) selling at $2.50 
per 6-basket crates. 

On the 1st of July the market report reads: 

Peaches — Receipts light; large-sized fruit with good col- 
or in fair demand; small and hard or poor-colored stock 
dull. Quote express receipts, Missouri and Arkansas 4- 
basket crates at 50c to 60c and 1-3-bu. boxes at 50c — 6- 
basket crates Mamie Ross at $2.25; Alabama flat crates 
large yellow at 75c@$1.00 and white at 75c. Home-grown 
early Hales sold at 35c to 50c per ^-bu. open chip basket. 

On July 10th the market report reads : 

Peaches — Lower, receipts larger. Demand good for 
large-sized high-colored Elbertas, but all small and poor- 
colored fruit slow sale. Quote Arkansas climax baskets 
clings at 50c and 4-basket crates common at 40 @ 50c, 4-bas- 
ket crates Elbertas at $1.00 @ 1.20 and 6-basket crates Craw- 
fords at $1.50@1.75, bu. baskets red at $1.25 (lot of 35 bas~ 
kets sold at that). Texas bu. baskets Elbertas (clean-up) 
at $1.75 @ 2.00, and express receipts cummer crates El- 
bertas at $2.00; Illinois 4-basket crates Carmen at 75c. 
Home-grown slow sale at 30c to 40c for %-bu. baskets. 

It might be added that in the latter part of August and 
during September and part of October, Michigan stock oft- 
en came here freely in small baskets and the prices usually 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. *41 

about 35 to 40 cents per basket — one-fifth bushel baskets — 
neat ventilated packages, covered with pink tarleton under 
the slats covering the fruit. It should also be said that 
more or less damaged fruit, bad order, etc., came in from 
time to time and sold much lower than the figures given. 
It should also be stated that no matter how crowded the 
market, California peaches are usually in sight and keep 
coming until November or later, always showing splendid 
keeping qualities. Colorado has been a big shipper of 
peaches — hundreds of cars going direct to the auction, as 
does the California stock. 

One-third .bushel boxes or peck boxes should not be 
used by anybody. Use only the 4-basket crate or 6-basket 
crate. These packages are made to conceal rather than 
reveal the contents and are back numbers. The buyer 
wants to see what he is getting. The fruit Is not bruised 
and injured getting it into baskets as it is into boxes of any 
size. 

The tendency of the times is to use packages that give 
the buyer a glimpse of the fruit, its condition, quality, etc., 
thus eliminatingthe risks attached to buying fruit in the 
old packages which have been used too long. The package 
as well as the packing and quality of fruit constitute im- ' 
portant features that must not be ignored if you want to 
keep up with the times. All kinds of boxes should be dis- 
carded and baskets only used. 

PEARS. 

The pear crop of the West and South is small on the av- 
erage on account of frequent failures. We have frequently 
to look Eastward for part of our supplies. Western New 
York, the greatest apple and pear growing region in the 
country, ships annually here anfji to most other Western 



42 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

markets by the car load. In every early shipment the 
Bartlett predominated, and in the later shipments the 
Duchesse. Both are a prime favorite in all the Northern 
and Western markets. New Jersey shipped considerable 
pears here the past few years, largely in bulk cars, most of 
them Kiefers. Illinois and Missouri had an enormous 
crop of Kiefers and they crowded our market here for nearly 
two months. Prices were low enough to place them with- 
in reach of all. They were used freely for preserving pur- 
poses. A number of cars were placed in cold storage for 
a month or six weeks, when the market improved through 
lighter offerings. 

I do not believe that the pear in the West and South 
has had a fair chance to show what it is capable of yield- 
ing in the way of profit to the cultivator. Blight, the 
great enemy of the pear has led many to practically 
abandon their pear orchards as soon as a few trees were 
stricken, and # neglected orchard is more susceptible to 
the dread disease than a well kept one. The greatest trou- 
ble is the little care or labor bestowed on the orchards, 
or few trees planted. Neglect is the main cause why West- 
tern markets are so poorly supplied with the native or 
local growth. Bartletts, Duchesse, Seckel, Louis Bonne, 
White Doyenne, Clapp's Favorite, Flemish Beauty, Law- 
rence, Sheldon, Burre d'Anjou and Winter Nelis are the 
best known and most favored varieties in this market. How- 
ever, new and fine varieties are constantly coming out, and 
this list might be revised with profit. The Howell is an 
excellent eating pear, but does not stand up as long as the 
others, but for local markets, say within 150 miles, would 
be all right. 

The Garber is a large, juicy pear of fair quality, but 
somewhat coarse-grained. A splendid sort for canning, 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 43 

finding a ready market for that purpose at profitable prices. 
Color /bright yellow. Tree is remarkably free from) 
blight, hardy and healthy. A good sort to plant with other 
varieties (particularly Kiefer) as a pollenizer. (In all 
Kiefer orchards, full 10 per cent of the total plant should 
be Garber.) For profits and large yields, Garber and Kief- 
er are most profitable. Garber is gone just before Kiefer 
comes in. 

The LeConte, the new favorite in the South, has not sus- 
tained its good reputation — as being free from blight — yet 
it probably remains the most profitable for Southern grow- 
ers. It appears to flourish in the Southern states. We do 
not believe, however, that there is a dollar in it for Mis- 
souri or Illinois cultivators. Some came in from this State 
that bore a stronger resemblance to pawpaws than pears. 
Think Arkansas and Tennessee as far north as they will 
pay. The finest specimens of the LeConte that came here 
years ago were from Florida, Georgia and Alabama. They 
were fine in all respects — large, highly colored, flavor, 
taste, quality, etc., excellent. We had some from Florida 
placed side by side with Bartletts that sold for nearly as 
much as that reigning favorite. Alabama shipped very 
freely the past several years. LeConte about equal to the 
Florida shipments, came from Texas and stood very close 
to them in quality. 

The Kiefer has received a good deal of public attention 
the past few years, and it appears to be holding its own, 
its splendid keeping qualities making it especially valuable. 
It can be brought out when most of the others are gone. It 
is large and showy, like the Ben Davis in the apple mar- 
ket — and having the weaknesses of the latter for eating 
purposes. Its size, color and keeping qualities make it 
valuable. 



44 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

All pears should be gather before fully ripe, thus afford- 
ing a chance to reach other markets in good condition and 
stand up a few days longer in the hands of retailers. 

It is very late maturing in this section and becomes col- 
ored up and looks full ripe two weeks before fit to eat — 
hard as a brick, in fact, while it looks overripe. 

The first receipts of pears usually come to us from Texas, 
Mississippi or Alabama, about the 15th to 20th of June. 

Last year pears made their appearance on the 10th of 
July, much later than usual. They were the Kiefer from 
Alabama, which continued to supply most of the receipts 
for the following week, selling from 80c to 90c, bushel 
hampers, July 18th a sale of 25 hampers, Alabama Kiefers, 
is reported at $1.00, the stock being riper, better color. 

Very few appeared except this variety for the following 
three weeks, and the prices were 65 to 75 cents per one- 
third bushel box. Later on the offerings were larger, em- 
bracing LeConte, and prices 50 to 75 cents; Florida Le- 
Conte, $3 per barrel. 

July 20th to 25th, more liberal receipts, especially of the 
LeConte, from Alabama, Florida, Texas and elsewhere, 
and it is selling down to 75 cents to $1, three peck boxes, 
and crates from Florida holding about a barrel coming in 
car lots and selling $2.50 to $2.75, and barrels little high- 
er, $2.90 to $3.00. The receipts are now large; Alabama 
is shipping here in car load lots, prices being $3.00 barrel. 
Other receipts from various points, and Southeast Mis- 
souri and Southern Illinois. Arkansas Kiefers are quoted 
at 85c to $1.00 per bushel hamper. 

August 1, LeContes from Florida, Alabama and Mis- 
sissippi at $2.60 to $2.75 per barrel, and occasionally some 
in bad order lower. A few Bartletts appear about this 
time. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 45 

Home-grown are now added to the receipts and selling at 
50 cents to $1 per bushel, as to quality, variety and condi- 
tion. The latter part of July the season is almost at its 
height for California stock — fine Bartletts are now among 
the receipts and steadily thereafter until Christmas, when 
some of the later varieties go into cold storage, and there- 
after the California stock can be had until the 1st of 
April, so that California pears are on sale here 9 months of 
the year. The market is so crowded for the two weeks 
following that cold storage may often prove the best 
place for the best of the receipts, as towards the 1st to 
the 10th of September prices begin to go up again and 
steadily advance after that time as a rule every year. 
The California and other far West pears seem to be more 
abundant every year. 

The pear is a rich, luxurious fruit when grown to perfec-' 
tion or properly matured, and is marked for its great deli- 
cacy, juicy texture and delightful flavor. It Is, of course, 
a favorite with the public for its many excellent qualities. 
The pear, properly managed, is an excellent shipper. It 
should be packed in baskets, bushel hampers preferred, or 
to a limited extent six basket crates or carriers, but 
when the business is conducted on a more extensive scale, 
as it is in the East, the barrel is the more economical for 
general use. A number of bulk cars of Kiefers of Illinois' 
enormous crop went out to different markets last fall suc- 
cessfully. At least a dozen cars carefully barreled were 
put into cold storage for four to six weeks. Later prices 
justified such a step. New Jersey shipped a number of 
bulk cars here the past few years. The best package for 
the South, howeverfi is the regular bushel hamper, now so 
extensively used for a variety of fruits and vegetables. 
They should be gathered when full grown, but before they 



46 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 






are fully colored. Do not wait till they get mellow, as that 
desirable condition should be reached after arrival, or 
while in theh hands of the commission merchant awaiting 
a purchaser, or while being reshipped to other points. 

In storing for a better market, be sure that none fully 
colored or mellow are put away, for they will not keep 
long, and injure the others. They should be packed in 
barrels when full grown, but before further evidence of 
maturity is visible. In this condition they will keep well 
in cold storage four to eight weeks, usually as long as nec- 
essary. The cold storage temperature most suitable would 
be probably 34 to 36 degrees, and uniform as possible. 

PLUMS. 

Are really an important crop to Southern shippers. The 
plum business has been somewhat experimental so far and 
the efforts of cultivators have been confined mainly to the 
Wild Goose, and the most favored of all, the Damson, which 
are fully covered elsewhere in this book. 

The Chickasaw, usually cheap and plenty, a small 
yellow native plum growing wild here and south of this 
latitude, is among the earliest. It has quite a following 
among the cheaper class of buyers and never sells high 
enough to justify paying much attention to it. Receipts of 
this variety are largely home-grown. 

The Wild Goose is a large, showy fruit, that finds favor 
with all buyers. It is excellent for either table purposes, 
retail dealers, or for preserving. It is purchased for a va- 
riety of purposes and the prices are generally remunera- 
tive and up to a few years ago averaged high; but a more 
general cultivation of it led to a greater abundance and 
lower prices the past few years. It is more profitable and 
salable than many of the highly lauded varieties offered 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 47 

to shippers throughout the South, being more attractive 
in size and color than many of them. The Wild Goose 
seems to succeed everywhere south of St. Louis. 

A number of the Japanese varieties have appeared, many 
of them very much alike, but most of them of excellent 
quality. Being comparatively new, they were slow sale, 
but are improving in acquaintance and will soon fare better. 
Like the apple and other fruits the plum must have size 
and color to succeed or attract buyers. 

The first receipts are usually from Texas, from the mid- 
dle of May to the 1st of June. Mississippi, Arkansas and 
Alabama soon follow. Last year's first shipment were two 
weeks later than usual, not appearing till June 1st— a lot 
of Burbanks from Texas which sold at 75c per 4-basket 
crate. They were, however, in poor condition. June 6th, 
Tennessee Chicakasaws, $1.00 to $1.25 in 24-quart cases. 
June 9th Arkansas receipts of Wild Goose, 75 to 85 cents 
for 1-3 bushel boxes. Would fare better in 24-quart cases 
and be in better condition. June 15th, Arkansas Wild 
Goose in 1-3 busehl boxes, 70 to 90 cents. Tennessee 
Chickasaws and other cheap common sorts, 85c to $1.00 for 
24 quart cases. June 20th the market report reads as fol- 
lows: 

Plums— Fancy Wild Goose firm and in demand; common 
varieties slow. Quote Arkansas and Tennessee Wild Goose 
at 60c per peck box, 90c to $1.00 per 1-3 bu. box and $1.50® 
1.75 per 6-gal. case; Chickasaw and other common varie- 
ties dull at $1.00 per 6-basket crate; 4-basket crates Japan 
varieties at 75c to $1.00 and 6-basket cases do (Arkansas) 
at $2.00. 

By the 1st to the 3rd of July report reads about as fol- 
lows: 

Plums— Sound large ripe Wild Goose in good demand and 



48 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 






firm; overripe, soft, cracked and all common varieties dull. 
Quote Arkansas and Tennessee Wild Goose at 35c to 50c 
per peck box, 65c per 1-3 bu. box and $1.25 to $1.50 per 6- 
gal. case; common varieties dull at 75c to $1.00 per 6- 
basket crate. 

July 10th to 12th market report reads: 

Plums — Firmer; receipts light and demand fair. Quote 
choice Wild Goose and Newman at 35 @ 45c per peck box, 
50 @ 60c per 1-3 bu. box and $1.25 per 6-gal. case; Kelsey, 
Abundance, Red June, Burbank and other Japanese va- 
rieties at 40 @ 50c per 1-3 bu. box. Lot of 33 ^-bu. chip 
baskets sold at 75c per basket for Wild Goose and 90c for 
Green Gages. 

DECIDUOUS FRUITS. 

Later, 15th to 20th, the California offerings were gradual- 
ly increasing, car loads, including apricots, cherries, plums, 
prunes, early peaches, pears, etc., all of the earlier sorts. 
The cars steadily increased thereafter, embracing a great 
variety of plums, prunes, etc., elegant fruit in attractive 
packages, 4-basket crates, about 20 lbs. net in each. 

Other states soon follow, Oregon, Washington and Idaho, 
which united with California offerings, make a magnifi- 
cent display in every market. All the cars of deciduous 
fruits go direct to the two auction houses which sell three 
times a week — Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Each 
month thereafter shows enlarged offerings in the big mar- 
kets, which the more Eastern states find very strong com- 
petition. 

August little else but home-grown here, the more South- 
ern states being done shipping. August 5th the quotations 
are as follows: 

Plums — Damsons in freer offering and easier; other va- 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 49 

rieties slow. Quote damsons at $1.00 per %-bu. basket and 
by weight at 5%c per lb., Green Gages at 50@60c per %-bu. 
and 25c per peck basket; German prunes at 75@90c per 
per %-bu. basket; large red varieties at $1.00 per %-bu. 
basket, 75c@$1.00 per 1-3-bu. box and $L50@2.00 per 6- 
gal. case; Japan varieties at $1.00 per 6-gal. case. 

Six gallon cases, or strawberry packages are the best to 
use. The four-basket crate, too, brings them here in good 
shape, and the six-basket crates best of all. Small bas- 
kets also make excellent packages, like Michigan uses, 
one-fifth of a bushel, a nice retail package, which she also 
uses for peaches. A few soft or too ripe soon make a 
bad looking mess of the whole contents of the box, or pack- 
age, the greener ones smashing the soft or ripe ones. When 
shipping Wild Goose or Chickasaws by freight, gather when 
full grown, before coloring sets in, but if by express let 
them remain on the trees a little longer. A good many ar- 
rive too ripe. They ripen rapidly whilein transit and full 
ripe friut should not be shipped, as a few of them sometimes 
spoil the sale of the package. They should not be shipped 
by freight unless 12 to 18 hours in transit (no longer) is 
assured. However ,time by freight cannot be assured le- 
gally and you have to take your own chances in this way. 

APPLES. 

Were we not writing for Southern growers and shippers 
we should open our subject with what Downing calls "the 
world renowned fruit of temperate climates," the apple. 
Apples are shipped as regularly to Europe as our surplus 
wheat and other products, and the American apple is steadi- 
ly growing in favor and popularity in the principal foreign 
markets, especially so in Liverpool, Glasgow and London, 
where thousands of barrels go every month during the ship- 



50 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

ping season, from Eastern shipping points and also from 
Canada. 

The French and German markets which take large 
quantities at times, would be open for much more American 
apples but for the disposition of each government to retal- 
iate for the heavy duties placed on some of their products 
by this country. 

The Southern shippers are interested most in the earli- 
est varieties, such as the Red June, Early Harvest and Red 
Astrakhan, which appear early enough to find most mar- 
kets almost bare. The later varieties, too, should be grown 
at least to some extent, for local and family wants, if 
nothing more. Being entirely hardy, producing a crop 
every year and thriving with very little care, they can be 
grown by the most inexperienced. West Tennessee and 
Northern Arkansas, Northern Mississippi, Northern Ala- 
bama and Northeast Texas raise considerable apples for 
the early market. Kentucky and Southern Illinois are 
largely engaged in the business and contribute liberally to 
our market. The Red June is the most profitable early va- 
riety. The Early Harvest is earlier, but is lacking in size 
and color, so desirable an advantage, and never sells so 
well. Apples can be had any month in the year, the old 
stock appearing until the new crop comes in, and both can 
be found at the retailers' stands sometimes for a month 
afterwards. 

First receipts were on the 2nd of June, two-third bushel 
boxes, from Southern Illinois and Tennessee, small green 
apples selling at $1.00 to $1.15. Mississippi has frequently 
been the first shipping here. On the 7th Mississippi ap- 
ples, better fruit, appeared and in two-third bushel boxes 
brought $1.25 to $1.50 box. June 10th, the price current 
reads: 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 51 

New Apples — Quality of offerings generally poor, hence 
sales slow; large red June or yellow fruit would bring good 
prices if offered. Tennessee hampers, green, quotable at 
$1.00@1.25 for good-sized and 90c for windfalls, and red 
June at $1.40; Southern Illinois 2-3 bu. boxes at $1.35 and 
^-bu. baskets at 50 @ 65c. 

From the 10th to the 20th little change to note in prices, 
stock generally poor, and the receipts from Mississippi, 
Southern Illinois and Tennessee: 

On the 22nd here is the report: 

New Apples — Values weakening on increasing receipts 
and general poor quality of offerings; small, green, wind- 
falls dull, but smooth large red, early harvest and trans- 
parent in demand. Quote early harvest in brls at $3.00 for 
No. 2 to $4.50 for No. 1 hand-picked. Tennessee 6-basket 
crates green at 90c and red June at $1.25; 1-3 bu. boxes at 
40c for green and 60c for red June; Illinois melon baskets 
at 50c and 2-3 bu. boxes at 65(g) 85c for small to $1.00 @ 1.25 
for large fruit and fancy transparent at $1.40. Sales: 40 
melon baskets Illinois at 50c, 16 and 4 boxes transparent at 
$1.40 and 2 boxes mixed at $1.00, 10 and 11 brls. Illinois 
Early Harvest (No. 1) at $4.50. 

By the first week in July the market is lower, receipts 
being heavier, most of them in barrels, at $2.00 to $3.00, 
and the local crop is now coming and selling at 35c to $1.00 
in open half bu. chip baskets. The season now may be 
said to be at its height for the early varieties. A review 
of the season later would elicit nothing new or interesting 
to the Southern shippers. 

We will say to Western growers, that whenever New 
York and the New England states have a crop, it may 
not pay to store many, but when an off year comes, 
there is money generally in putting away good stock for 



52 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

late markets. The New York yield is large when it comes 
—usually crowding eastern markets, beside liberal ship- 
ments to Europe. 

For earliest shipments, when the market is comparatively 
bare and prices high, use the regular bushel hamper now 
used so extensively in shipping a great variety of fruits 
and vegetables, and later barrels. Barrels for these early 
sorts should be "chipped" or ventilated. They keep long- 
er and do not ripen or mellow so rapidly. 

Now, in regard to packing: Do not fail to examine all 
your barrels carefully before packing. Tighten all the 
hoops, using the shortest nail possible on the bulge. Use 
liners always on top and bottom; do not try to be saving 
by using inferior barrels. The best are always the cheap- 
est in the end. Apples should always be hand picked, 
throwing out all bruised stock and windfalls. These quali- 
ties only depreciate the value of your market and compel you 
to pay charges on something that may have no value in any 
market. Remember, the freight is as much on poor fruit 
as good, and the barrels cost too much to use on poor 
fruit. 

The facing is a nice part of the trade. Use the brightest 
and best shaped for this purpose, placing them two layers 
deep, with stems downward. Use only of an average size, 
representing the same as balance of contents, so that the 
buyers are not misled. Don't do anything that will give 
your brand a "black eye." 

Do not in any instance make a facing that will lead the 
purchaser to suppose that an extra large quality is being 
sold him, when in reality he will have an inferior lot of 
stock outside of the few fancy facers. Failure, not success, 
lies that way. 

This kind of business is an injury to the house handling 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 53 

your goods, and your brand will be condemned by the 
trade. After thorough facing, finish placing in the balance, 
by handling carefully in a small way, so as to avoid bruis- 
ing. Shake the barrel often, so as to have them settle in 
solid. 

If intended for immediate shipment, head them up with 
a screw press, always neatly — have an experienced work- 
man for this purpose — so that the barrel after being well 
packed, nicely stenciled, naming the variety, and well head- 
ed, shows up in good, neat shape for the market. 

.Invariably mark the faced end or the one you want us 
to open for the purchaser. 

If you mark the wrong end it will lead to confusion and 
render it necessary to open every barrel to ascertain which 
is rightly and which is wrongly marked. The name of the 
firm you are shipping to, and the name of the variety of 
apple, should be put on the head in every case, with sten- 
cil, if possible, but in its absence with brush or lead pencil. 

Never leave your commission man or his customers in 
doubt as to what kind of apple the barrel contains, or which 
is the top or bottom. 

Put no marks on the bottom or pressed end. 

Shippers lose a good deal of money by failing to com- 
ply with these requirements. 

SPECIAL NOTICE. 

During the summer months, country shippers of perish- 
able Fruits and Vegetables should so time their shipments 
that they will not be delivered on the street Saturday after- 
noon; only in the very early morning hours of that day can 
stuff be marketed advantageously — arrivals later in day 
usually have to be sacrificed or carried over to the follow- 
ing week. 



54 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

WATERMELONS. 

All the Southern States can grow the melon in the great- 
est abundance, and as very little skill, knowledge or experi- 
ence is required, the business is not always profitable in 
shipping to distant markets. The melons are so bulky, 
large and heavy, that the cost of transportation becomes at 
once the first matter to consider in connection with their 
cultivation. Your location is also an important matter. 
You must be near a railroad station. As melons will not 
bear express charges, you must avail yourself of the fast- 
est freight accessible. 

The first receipts are from Florida about the latter part 
of May or first week m June, with Georgia or Southern 
Texas next, from the 15th to the 20th of June. Northern 
Texas usually. raises a large crop, but rarely appears early 
enough in this market to secure early or high prices. Last 
season the first car was from Leesburg, Fla., 1,000 25-lb. 
melons, which averaged over 2 cents a pound, car bringing 
over $500, the only car on the market for several days, get- 
ting in on the 30th of May. A week later Southern Texas 
was represented by a car of 27-pound melons, which sold at 
$2.00 per 100 lbs. June 15th, principal receipts continuing 
from Florida, most of them the Watson melon, a prime fa- 
vorite now in all the southern states. An occasional car 
Florida Favorite from Florida. Market 90c to $1.25 per 
100 lbs., as to size and condition. July 1st the market re- 
port reads: 

Watermelons — Demand fairly active; movement free, but 
at lower prices, due to liberal offerings. Quote the range 
in jobbing, delivered, at 65 @ 70c per 100 lbs. for small, to 
75 @ 80c for 25-lb., and 85 @ 90c for 28-lb. Watsons. Sales: 
1 car 20-lb. Florida Watsons yesterday, $140 on track; de- 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 55 

livered — load 24-lb. Florida Watsons at 75c per 100 lbs., 
3 loads 25-lb. do at 80c, 4 loads 28-lb. do at 85c to 90c. 

By the 15th of July, Texas, Alabama, Georgia and South- 
east Missouri are shipping melons. Southeast Missouri 
points 165 to 200 miles south of St. Louis are shipping 
steadily, but only in a limited way, until about the 1st of 
August, when receipts may be 40 to 60 cars daily, many of 
them going through, however, to other markets further 
North. July 15th the daily market reads: 

Watermelons — Firm, with a good demand for sound, large 
melons; spotted and specked fruit hard to sell. Quote in 
jobbing way delivered at 65c to 95c per 100 lbs., according 
to size and kind. Sales, delivered, per 100 lbs.: Car 27-lb. 
Alabama Watsons at 65c, load 24-lb. Watsons at 75c, 2 
loads 28-lb. do at 85c, 1 car 32-lb. do at 95c. 

The market report for August 3rd, reads : 

Watermelons — Receipts 37 cars, including 7 cars local 
and 13 cars through I. M., 9 cars local on Rock Island, 7 
cars local and 1 car through on L. & N. Market 
Market about steady, with a quiet demand for choice large- 
sized long melons; round melons dull and relatively cheap- 
er. Quote car loats Missouri melons on trk at $75@90 per 
car for 18-lb. Monte Cristo, $90 @ 100 for 18@20-lb. Watsons, 
$110@115 for 22@23-lbfl Watsons, and $120@125 for 
25 @ 28-lb. Watsons. Sales: 1 car Missouri 23-lb. 
Kolb Gem at 10c each delivered. On trk — 4 cars Ar- 
kansas 25 @ 28-lb. Rattlesnake and Watsons at $100 to $120, 
1 car 18-lb. Missouri Watsons (21,000 lbs) at $100, 2 cars 
26-lb. do (26,000 lbs.) at $110, 1 car 22-lb. and 1 car 25-lb. 
do also at $110, 1 car Mo. at $85, 1 do at $90, 1 do at $100, 1 
do at $105, 4 cars 24-lb. Mo. Watsons at $100, 1 do at $105, 4 
cars 24-lb. Mo. Watsons at $100, 1 at $100, 3 at $105, 2 at 
$110, 



56 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

On the 15th of August, when the season, especially for 
home-grown was at its height, the market report is as 
follows: ! i I 1 * j 

Watermelons — Receipts 15 cars local on Frisco, 26 cars 
local on Frisco R. I., 19 cars local and 5 cars through on 
Iron Mountain. Offerings quite large, but principally of 
overripe, small and sunburnt melons, which are selling 
with difficulty and at comparatively low prices. Fair in- 
quiry for choice large long melons at fair prices. Quote 
car lots Missouri on track at $33 to $85, according to 
quality and size. Sales: 1 car 18-lb. Missouri Watson at 
40c per 100 lbs. del. On track: Missouri — 1 car Monte Cris- 
to at$40, 1 car 20-lb. Watsons at $60; 1 car 20@22-lb. do at $55, 
1 at $47, 1 at $50, 3 at $65, 1 at $67.50, 1 at $70, 2 at $75, 1 
at $81. This morning's sales on trk: 3 cars for $100, 1 car at 
$35, 3 at $40, 1 at $42.50, 2 at $45, 1 at $47.50, 2 at $50, 1 
at $55, 1 at $60, 1 at $75, 1 at $85, 1 car 15-lb. Alabama sweet 
at $44, 2 cars 23-lb. Watsons at $80. Also 1 car 28-lb. In- 
diana Watsons (yes p. m.) at $140 trk. 

You are no nonger interested in the course of the mar- 
ket, but Indiana is — her stock being so much better than 
any others coming, that she gets good prices till the close 
of the season, perhaps a month or six weeks later. 

One evil practiced by many Southeast Missouri shippers 
is that of putting into the earliest cars loaded some melons 
not fully ripe, in their anxiety to get into market while 
prices are high. This is one of the mistakes of improper 
packing that injures the owner eventually. The discovery 
of a few half-green melons gives the whole car a black eye, 
and damages the sale, sometimes seriously. 

Another very serious mistake of shippers is their failure 
to notify the consignee how many melons in the car or 
their average weight. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS, 57 

The first inquiry of a buyer is, "How many melons in 
the car?" and the next question is, "What do they weigh or 
average?" 

The seller is too often unable to answer either and thus 
the sale is thereby injured, since the buyer does not know 
what he is getting. Lots of trades are lost thereby, es- 
pecially for reshipment. Do not make the mistake of put- 
ting only the big ones on top. Let them run straight. 

In packing, hay or straw or similar packing material, 
should be spread over the bottom of the car. Sawdust 
should be avoided. Thoroughly ventilated or cattle cars 
should be used, the sides, if opened, protected against pil- 
fering by nailing planks on the inside or openings 

A car should hold 900 to 1,500, according to size of 
melons and not less than 24,000 pounds. 

CANTALOUPES. 

They sometimes appear a week or more before water- 
melons, but last year were a week later than the first wa- 
termelons. The first receipts arrived on the 5th of June 
from Florida, in standard crates, selling at $2.00 to $4.00, 
as to quality and condition. Strangely enough a shipment 
from Southern Texas arrived that same afternoon in the 
regular half-bushel cantaloupe baskets (1 dozen melons). 
They sold at 60c to 80c basket. 

From the 7th to 12th of June receipts continue from Flor- 
ida, California and Texas. The Florida stock $3.00 to $4.00 
for' standard crates and pony crates $2.50 to $3.00 Texas 
baskets 60c to 75 and California standard crates $4.00 to 
$4.25. The California stock is very uniform and even in the 
matter of maturity, size and condition — disclosing the cus- 
tomary care and pack of the Californian. On June 16th 
the daily price current reads: 



58 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

Cantaloupes — Offerings larger. Choice sweet-flavored 
melons in good demand; green, soft, etc., not wanted. 
Quote Florida standard crates Gems at $2.75 and pony 
crates at $2.25 del.; California standard crates sold in job- 
bing way del. at $4.00 and pony crates at $3.00. Alabama 
bu. hampers at $1.40. 

June 21st, here is the market report: 

Cantaloupes — Lower. Quote Texas standard crates Gems 
at $2.25; California standard crates sold in jobbing way del. 
at $2.75@3.00, and pony crates at $1.75@2.00, mainly at 
$2.75 and $1.75. Alabama hampers at 75c and baskets at 
50c. 

On July 3rd the report reads: 

Cantaloupes — Market steady and demand good for fancy 
California, but weak and irregular on overripe and soft; 
Georgia melons selling at wide range in price owing to 
great difference in quality. Quote fancy California stand- 
ard crates in jobbing way del. at $2.00 and pony crates at 
$1.50 @ 1.65 — soft less; sales included 1 car standard at $2.00 
del,, 1 car at $2.00 for standard and $1.50 for pony crates, 1 
car at $2.00 and $1.65 and 1 car at $1.50@1.75 for 
standard and $1@1.25 for pony — all del. Georgia standard 
crates selling at 50c to $1.50, mainly at $1.00@1.25; Ala- 
bama hampers at 25c to 40c. 

Here is the report July 18th: 

Cantaloupes. — Steady; free receipts and choice well-fla- 
vored melons in fair demand; soft, overripe, green and in- 
ferior stock dull. Quote Arizona standard crates at $2.75 
and pony crates at $2.25 del.; California standard and jum- 
bo crates at $2.75. Missouri baskets at 40@50c and bu. 
crates at 90c@$1.00. Illinois baskets and small crates at 
40@50c — 1 car sold at 40c del. and flat crates at 50@65c. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 59 

Arkansas standard crates at $1.50 @ 2.00, bu. crates at $1.00 
@1.25 and flat crates at 50 @ 65c. 

Home-grown and Western Kentucky cantaloupes are com- 
ing and southern shippers are no longer interested. Colo- 
rado's fine stock is coming by the carload about the 15th 
August, and their brands predominate for 2 months or more 
following, says 20th of August to 20th of October. How- 
ever, some good stock comes here from Indiana and Mich- 
igan. 

Most of the Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana receipts 
came through in good order by through fast trains. If 
picked at the proper time, just when full grown, will stand 
two or three days easily. 

Barrels (chipped or ventilated), boxes, crates, etc., will 
do for early shipments. Barrels, however, are not desirable 
packages bein gtoo large, the greenest crushing the ripest. 

Put in no overripe, soft, specked, bruised, damaged or 
faulty melons. Neither must they be picked too green or 
half grown. One or more soft or damaged melons in a 
crate spoils the sale of the package. 

The Ordway Colorado district has turned out the finest 
kind of melons the past few years. The Ordway pink meat 
has become famous and led to a widespread demand for 
this variety. It's nearly all meat — just a little cavity for 
the seed in the center. It has splendid keeping qualities 
and almost holds the trade and market for about six weeks 
or from the latter part of September to the middle of No- 
vember. There is a growing demand for good cantaloupes. 

ORANGES. 

Our Florida friends understand pretty well about the 
packing, sizing, assorting, marking, etc., of the orange crop, 



60 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

and these features of the business need no extended notice 
in this work. 

These important labors are, however, sometimes poorly 
performed. 

The packers who properly size and grade, after whom 
the marking of count and quality will prove correct, are 
usually properly rewarded for their labors. 

Therefore, when you mark a box Bright, be sure there 
is nothing else in the package. 

Mark the proper count at all times. 

As there is a wide difference in the quality and price 
of Russets, separate them into two grades — Golden Rus- 
sets and simply Russets. There should be two grades of 
Bright — Fancy Bright and Plain Brights, 

The most favored size is 176, and from that to 200 fol- 
lowing next. Perhaps 150 to 165 sizes next. There is a 
heavy demand for 200 to 250 sizes from the peddling trade, 
and at nearly full prices, but they do not buy until prices 
are down to reasonable limits, and when cheap they buy 
very freely. 

All should be wrapped. Do not ship any other way. 

Fill a car whenever possible. It makes better time, and 
the fruit is not rehandled and subject to other injuries and 
dangers that small lots are exposed to. Do not hurry off 
the crop in the latter part of November while too green. 
The folly of doing so has been thoroughly demonstrated. 
• The Florida orange is in favor with all classes, and 
its reputation is well established for its flavor, taste, thin 
skin, sweetness and general excellence, being superior as a 
rule to most others offered. 

The California Valencia orange has come to the front 
of late years as the most profitable. It is a fine sweet 
orange, good keeper, and almost seedless. Its great ad- 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 61 

vantage is that it comes to market when it has practically 
no competition, beginning about the 1st of May when the 
others are disappearing. 

The general plan of distribution is a subject that is too 
large, too important and too unwieldy to be handled in the 
small space that could be given it in a work like this. The 
Florida papers have discussed the matter from all points, 
and growers and shippers must draw their own conclusions. 
There is a difference of opinion on the subject and always 
will be. Of late years practically all the oranges coming 
here go to the two auction houses here. Sales days every 
Monday, Wednesday and Friday throughout the year. 

PINEAPPLES. 

The discovery of the pine apple was made by the Span- 
iards in South America probably in the 16th century. In 
the 17th century it had found its way to the hot houses in 
England and Holland, its use being confined to royalty. It 
remained very scarce till the 18th century. It is now 
grown by all the leading nations either in glass houses or 
in the open. Out door cultivation in the United States 
dates back to 1860. There are 100 or more varieties. The 
Florida State Horticultural Society selected and described 
18 of these varieties in its annual report for 1900 — all of 
foreign origin. 

The Red Spanish is the best known and the standard 
variety for commercial purposes and field cultivation. Some 
of the favorites under glass don't do so well in the field. 
No other fruit in the long list offered to the public has 
made such rapid strides from a commercial standpoint. At 
least ten times as many pines find their way to paying mar- 
kets today as did ten years ago. Wonderful progress has 



62 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

been made in the cultivation, packing, marketing, etc. Flor- 
ida seems to have the ideal lands for pine raising. They go 
to all the big markets of the country in solid car loads very 
successfully and without interruption for two months — May 
and June. They begin in April and end in July. However, 
more or less come along in a small, irregular way until 
Christmas. 

Florida packs in half-barrel crates, very neat, substan- 
tial packages, holding 24 to 42 pines, according to size, each 
wrapped in a brown paper bag. The various sizes fit snugly 
in each crate and the fruit not only arrives as a rule in 
good condition, but keeps fairly well one to two weeks af- 
terwards. Around Christmas and the holidays some large 
fancy varieties with large, handsome green tops, admirable 
for table decoration, come to us and find ready sale at good 
prices. The fruit as a rule is handsome, sound and perfect, 
showing excellent judgment in grading, selecting and pack- 
ing. Cuba is the next largest contributor. Havana has 
been shipping pines all winter via New York, in barrels and 
will continue to do so till Florida crowds them out, which 
she does to a large extent in May or June her stock being 
so much finer and larger and better color. Car loads of 
Havana pines come here occasionally more or less damaged 
— going direct to either of the two auctions here. The 
quality of the Cuban stock continues to improve, and the 
conditions — the fruit being much larger and finer quality 
and color and generally in better condition on arrival. 

Porto Rico, the Hawaiians and Philippine Islands and 
West Indian Islands, could raise successfully millions of 
pines, yet Florida and Cuba will doubtless continue to sup- 
ply most of the markets of the United States. 

The pine apple is steadily growing in public favor and 
deserves to, being a valuable addition to our most delicious 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 63 

iruits. The taste and flavor of the pine apple is so agree- 
able that no one has to acquire a taste for it. 

GRAPE FRUIT, OR POMELO. 

The Pomelo is a native of the East Indies. The fruit 
grows so close together, in bunches, hence the term Grape 
Fruit. The Pomelo we regard as identical — another name 
for it — but possibly the scientific horticulturists will dis- 
pute this point. 

To the average citizen it was a big sour orange, not so 
long ago, and while some stopped to ask the name of it 
rarely bought. Now, however, it is known to everybody— 
although only the well-to-do can have it on the breakfast 
table for a good portion of the season. A number of dys- 
peptic gentlemen, however, recognize the juice in it as 
beneficial, and so do many who regard it valuable for its 
anti-malarial ingredients, which the juice furnishes. 

The man who gets his teeth for the first time into the 
white, pithy substance intervening between the skin and 
fruit sections, will think it is largely quinine, so bitter is it 
However, the fruit sections contain a juice that makes a 
fine, refreshing drink, especially in hot weather, and its 
free consumption has been urged by medical authorities as 
an antidote for malarial and similar purposes. The best 
way to eat Pomelo is to cut it entirely through crosswise 
and with a spoon dip out the juice, thus avoiding the bitter 
rind. The grocers now handle it freely, and a wonderful 
demand has grown for it among the better class, who can 
afford to buy it. It has been steadily advancing in value, 
and during the past fall and winter, its regular season, a 
large amount was consumed here at $5 to $7 per box for 
Florida and Jamaica fruit, the former selling highest. Cal- 
ifornia shipped some that sold low on account of lack of 



64 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

juice in the fruit. The demand for Grape Fruit has become 
widespread and its continues to grow. 

TANGERINES AND MANDARINS. 

The Tangerine is slowly finding its way to public favor, 
and the prices sometimes are nearly double those of the 
orange, especially in November and December. Yet the 
market is very easily crowded or broken down. The orange 
is so much cheaper, and so closely resembling it, that you 
can sell 50 boxes of them while selling two of the latter — 
half boxes at that — for they should be packed in half boxes, 
or packages half the size of the regular orange box. 

The Mandarin is much more neglected than the Tan- 
gerine because less desirable. 

PAWPAWS AND PERSIMMONS. 

These native fruits are well known, but are not pur- 
chased or eaten by one citizen in a hundred, and the many 
boys who go into the woods and far into the country after 
them at the time of their maturing, are also their most 
ardent admirers and liberal patrons after they reach the 
city fruit stand. The usual good crop of both in this imme- 
diate vicinity supplies all the demand existing, and more 
too. 

FIGS. 

Several years ago we used to get some small shipments 
of figs from Mississippi and other southern states. Very, 
few were received the past few years, and there is really 
little encouragement to offer shippers, and we can urge 
only small shipments, to the market. Quart boxes and 
strawberry crates are the most appropriate package for 
shipping them and such sell at $1.75 to $2.00 per crate. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 65 

JAPANESE PERSIMMON.— (KAKI.) 

This fruit has been talked about at length for some years 
past, as a very promising if not profitable fruit for market, 
and its cultivation urged. We cannot refer to it here in 
the same complimentary manner. The facts do not war- 
rant it. Several small shipments of it were made to this 
city frequently the past few years, the finest specimens 
coming from Arkansas. It resembles a handsome tomato so 
very closely in size, color, shape, etc., it is taken for one by 
nine out of every ten whose eye it catches, and it was pur- 
chased only in a very small way, and by all as a curiosity, or 
for show or display purposes. Few would care to risk eating 
it for a persimmon. With a better acquaintance with the pub- 
lic it may find more favor with customers, but It will be very 
slow securing proper recognition, and we suggest going 
slow with it until the people learn what it is, its merits, etc. 
We think it will eventually find its way to the big family 
of preserves of canned goods and find a market with them. 
Retail dealers should not allow their customers to buy it 
unless so ripe as to be soft, when the taste and flavor will 
be found all right. 

MULBERRIES. 

The native mulberry used to appear here frequently dur- 
ing the season many years ago. It has almost disappeared 
as a market fruit. In fact, there is no inquiry whatever 
for it, and it may not sell for enough to justify gathering 
and shipping it here. 

PECANS 

Can be grown very successfully throughout the greater 
part of the South. The man who has a pecan grove has 



66 SOUTHEBN FBTJITS AND VEGETABLES 

something that will furnish a nice income, possibly all his 
life. The cultivator who has a pecan grove in bearing has 
something to leave as a legacy to his family. or children. 
It bears as regularly as an apple orchard, and is good for 
more than one generation as a producer. They require but 
very little care as compared with raising of fruit or vegeta- 
ble crops, and are always ready sale at fair to good prices. 
They are not perishable like most other products and can 
be held safely for many months. They can be shipped by 
freight from anywhere in sacks or barrels. 

KUMQUATS. 

Here is something comparatively new in this and other 
markets, or was up to ten years ago, when they first ap- 
peared. The kumquat is a miniature orange, half to three- 
quarters of an inch in diameter. They come on the little 
branches on which they grow and should not be gathered 
from the trees like the regular orange. The twigs should 
be cut off, each having a cluster of fruit. Visitors from the 
North in Florida buy them freely. For decorations of 
Christmas trees and the table at social gatherings, dinners, 
etc., they are a decided novelty and great attraction. The 
rich green little leaves, corresponding with the small fruit 
on the little branches on which the golden orange hangs 
forms a most pleasant contrast. They came here in the 
regular strawberry ventilated crates in quart baskets and 
sold at 20 to 25 cents quart. The branches and leaves occu- 
pied as much space as the fruit. This new novelty came 
from Japan to Florida 15 years ago, imported we believe, by 
Dr. J. F. Corrigan, St. Leo, Fla., and he was we think the 
only gentleman in the state shipping them for several 
years, although many other parties have been shipping 
them for years past. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 67 

The following from the Kansas City Packer furnishes 
additional particulars : 

"The kumquat has also been started in California. It is 
new to most markets, but wherever displayed has taken 
well. The fruit is native to Southern China, and it is 
widely grown there and in Japan. It is a bush or small 
tree, and there are two varieties. One bears from the shape 
of a plum and other produces round oranges. The branches 
of the latter are quite thorny. About 3 dozen kumquats 
will make a quart. A little tree not 2 feet high will bear 
100 of them. They are sent to market in quart baskets 
and when a bit of their bright green foliage is displayed 
they make a tempting purchase. 

"The way to eat a kumquat fresh is to take is as the 
grocer said, rind and all. The rind has a tart flavor when 
eaten with pulp that makes a very pleasant combination. 
When preserved or candied, for which they are peculiarly 
adapted, they make a palatable relish. The caterers and 
confectioners are beginning to take to the kumquats in a 
way that promises a large demand for them along that line. 

"The kumquat can be grown indoors or under glass, re- 
quiring plenty of sunlight and the same temperature that 
a geranium would. When potted they are frequently graft- 
ed on hard stocks." 

The large demand referred to by the Packer never devel- 
oped and never will. It will not pay to grow them for dis 
tant markets or commercial purposes. 



68 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

FlvO \ST 13} K> fil • 



SHIPMENTS OF 

Every season a number of letters come asking for infor- 
mation under this head — what to ship, who to ship them to, 
the names of florists or dealers who handle them, etc. 

To begin with, flowers must be perfectly fresh on arrival 
here, presenting that very inviting appearance they have 
when fresh from the greenhouses, to find sale, and very 
few varieties of flowers can be delivered here from the 
South in that desirable condition, and disappointment 
awaits most of those who attempt shipping, who have had 
no practical experience. 

There is no use in referring to any special flower, but 
I will briefly say that the only one you are safe in shipping 
to this or any other market is the 

CAPE JESSAMINE, 

A flower of surpassing beauty and fragrance, and for but- 
tonhole, table and other decorative purposes, superior to 
most of the beauties of the floral world. For buttonholes 
and personal decoration of ladies and gentlemen on the 
street, they are prime favorites, and are deservedly grow- 
ing in favor. The express charges, fortunately, on such are 
exceedingly small, and there is little risk or loss attached 
to shipping, if reasonable judgment is exercised in gather- 
ing and packing. A portion of the buds shipped the past 
few years were worthless, most of them cut too green. Such 
soon become withered, discolored, and dry up. A few, on 
the other hand, were too far advanced — the flower wide 
open when shipped. The proper time to ship, for a 24 to 48 



FOB NOB THE BN MABKETb. 69 

hours' ride is just when the tip of the bud becomes white, 
and before it begins to open or spread. 

The packing is important, and the material for this 
punpose should be moist moss or cotton, for without moist- 
ure throughout the ride they will not arrive in the proper 
condition, and only packing material that will easily retain 
the moisture, such as moss ; should be uued This provision 
is important, because reshipping is often necessary, or the 
dealer here may have to hold two or three days before dis- 
posing of them. One-third bushel boxes will do very well, 
though the openings in these packages are frequently too 
large to protect the required moisture. The number of the 
buds should be plainly marked on every package — about 
200 to the box — all nicely laid in rows between layers of 
damp or wet moss. The buds will be gradually maturing 
or opening, while in transit, and on arrival their beauty and 
fragrance will be more apparent, and the desired condition 
for selling to advantage secured. Southern Texas points 
ship many. Alvin, Texas, has probably shipped more thai] 
any other southern city the past ten years. 

They wrap them up in pieces of common newspaper — 25 
in a bunch, and then pack them snugly in half-bushel chip 
baskets covered over with a piece of muslin and sewed on 
so as to fully protect them en route. The papers are wet 
at the start and remain moist till destination is reached. 

By following closely the foregoing instructions you can 
make some money shipping these flowers to the commis- 
sion houses. Many of the florists and regular dealers are 
opposed to this outside competition, and may not offer you 
much encouragement if you apply to them. Early receipts 
of desirable buds sell at 60 to 75 cents per 100, but they 
gradually decline to 50 cents as the receipts increase. The 
receipts were light the past few years. 



70 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

MISCELLANEOUS MATTERS. 



ABOUT IRRESPONSIBLE HOUSES. 

There is no more appropriate place to devote a few lines 
to such a subject, and we cannot ignore the opportunity to 
offer a few words of explanation and caution under this 
head. Shippers are so situated that it is difficult for them 
to ascertain at short notice the standing and responsibility 
of certain firms, and the question rarely occurs to them 
until they are ready to ship, or appealed to for business by 
some new firm they know nothing about. They occasional- 
ly receive a letter soliciting shipments, that is so alluring 
and tempting in character and make-up that some cannot 
resist it, and take the chances. You are told of the prices 
they can secure or guarantee you, the advantages they have 
over all other houses, and all the tricks to catch the unso- 
phisticated are resorted to, and very often successfully. 

In past years many shippers have been caught through 
such letters, full of liberal promises never lived up to, but 
Uncle Sam's postal laws cover such cases — as they amount 
to a violation of the postal laws. To avoid such prosecu- 
tions a district is invaded where the party is "compar- 
atively unknown. He is a good talker, shrewd and a good 
jude of human nature, but he does not always remain long 
enough to see the returns or how satisfactory they were to 
the shipper. 

Now, fruit shippers must understand that every mer- 
cantile business has a certain number of adventurers, men 
who have everything to make and nothing to lose, and who 
some day, after having secured the confidence, patronage 



FOB NOB THEBN MABKB TS. 71 

and funds of the confiding and unsuspecting class, disap- 
pear as suddenly and as unexpectedly as they appeared. 

The fruit commission business, we regret to say, is not 
free from this class any more than any other calling, and 
never will, and hence the importance of intrusting your 
business to well known, experienced and long established 
firms, for if you cannot do well with such houses, what show 
will you have with a different class? 

In every large city a few such firms are apt to come to 
the front, making their advent with the first arrivals of 
fruits, and too often, when the fruit season is over and no 
more to be made, they go down with the leaves in the fall, 
You are surprised how they get your address. This is 
simple enough, as they can be secured from the packages 
in front of the commission houses or at the express offices 
every day. 

We know of a great many fruit shippers who will appre- 
ciate the force and wisdom of the foregoing remarks, but 
we are writing for the benefit of the less experienced, that 
they may avoid the expensive experiments of others and 
profit by their experience. 

The shipper should not condemn the entire trade — most 
of whom have devoted a life time to honest effort and hard 
work and to whom the hand of welcome is cheerfully ex- 
tended in any shipping district, because of the acts of a few 
unscrupulous adventurers. 

These remarks will apply with equal force to all markets 
as well as St. Louis, and this little volume represents so 
many of them that our friends will patronize, that we urge 
the greatest caution, since few shippers are in circum- 
stances to stand the losses frequently arising from shipping 
indiscriminately. The grower or shipper who has a copy 
of this book has no excuse for taking chances with Strang 



72 SOUTHEBN FBVITS AND VEGETABLES 

ers as he can find in it the address of a good firm in each 
leading market — persons who are well known to the writer 
as thoroughly reliable and responsible. 

ABOUT COMMISSIONS. 

The inexperienced shipper often objects to 10 per cent 
commission, the universal charge in all the principal cities, 
by firms making a specialty of such products. There is, 
perhaps, no business requiring so much stationery, writing, 
stamps, stencils, drumming expenses and preparatory work 
as ours, and to do justice to these very perishable products, 
you can really attend to nothing else while they are coming 
in. As a matter of fact, no merchant gets 10 per cent for 
selling the goods, for fully 3 to 5 is consumed in the cost of 
soliciting, whether by local agent or traveling man, coupled 
with the cost of stencil reports, telegrams, etc. 

It would be much easier and more profitable to sell other 
goods over which you need not be so exercised at 5 per 
cent. The most favorable argument in favor of the justice 
and propriety of these rates of commission, is the action of 
most of the oldest, largest and most experienced shippers, 
who will not ship to any firm who charges less than 7 per 
cent for car loads and 10 per cent for smaller express ship- 
ments, and at the end of the season the wisdom of their ac- 
tions will be apparent. 

DIVIDING SHIPMENTS. 

Fruit growers frequently divide up their shipments too 
much. We have in our travels often seen shippers mark 
half a dozen packages to three or four houses. This is all 
wrong and rarely pays as well as if shipped only to one or 
two houses. The same labor and amount of bookkeeping is 
required to record and report these little shipments as 



FOB NOB THE BN MABKETS. 73 

large ones, increasing the opportunities to make mistakes, 
giving as it does double work to express agents at both 
ends of the line, frequently increasing the express charges 
and requiring so many more reports from here, stationery, 
postage stamps, price currents, etc. All of which go to 
show the practice is ill-advised — doubling the labor to all 
concerned without any benefit in return. 

Remember that competition in selling reduces prices in- 
stead of raising them, especially on perishables. 

A lot of peddlers and small dealers who run from store 
to store seeking lower prices will boldly inform you that 
they can buy the same fruit at so much less elsewhere, 
and they go to the other firm handling the same brands and 
tell him the same thing, and one after another comes along 
with the same story, and unless the dealer is on the alert 
he will finally conclude it must be so, and then "cutting" 
of prices follows speedily. The mischief does not rest 
there, but spreads along the line and others suffer by the 
decline. The magnitude of the evil is soon in evidence, 
which is too often started in this way — dividing the same 
goods on the street and thus creating uncalled for com- 
petition. 

THE NEW SHIPPER. 

The most difficult man to satisfy is the new shipper. 
He expects too much generally. He has an idea that you 
await, with some anxiety, the arrival of his shipment, also 
a number of your customers. He will expect a long letter 
giving the full details of its conditions, etc., what it 
brought; and if the returns fail to come up to those of any 
of his neighbors, you have made an enemy in most cases, 
and he is ripe for a change and an easy prey to the first 
idrummer that comes along. An explanation, if you have 



74 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

time to make such, rarely satisfies him. The commission 
house soliciting the new shipper will find a number hard 
to please; we know this from long experience. And as 
shippers and receivers are looking for all the information 
they can acquire, we are reserving nothing through selfish 
or other motives from either party in this work. 

SOME POPULAR ERRORS. 

Tne belief prevails widely that fruit commission mer- 
chants are rich, have an easy way of making money, and 
steadily adding to their wealth at the expense of the 
shipper; that they are in a safe business and should never 
fail. This is a rosy picture and we wish it was only half 
true. But few are rich, and it can be said with the greatest 
truth they are not in the right sort of business to become 
rich. There are few in this citjr, at least, practicing any- 
thing but economical habits, either in living or conducting 
business, and some are remaining in the trade in the hope 
that the future will prove more profitable than the past. 
In the hot contest for existence in the commercial life now, 
the man who succeeds in meeting his current expenses and 
bills promptly is fortunate, and the firms that have a little 
balance on the right side at the end of the year are not 
too numerous. 

There are some commission houses who have made 
money and who still hold it, but little of it accumulated 
from handling fruit and vegetables on commission. It has 1 
been the result of lucky ventures or speculation in other 
directions. No firm in this line of business can live solely 
on consignments of fruit. All must handle other prod- 
ucts at least six months in the year, for the domestic fruit 
season pays expenses only while it lasts — no longer. 

The commission man suffers from bad debts, as all 



FOB NORTHERN MARKETS, 75 

others do, two-thirds of his sales are charged up, and no 
matter how many bills he loses, the shippers must be paid 
for the goods. If all were sold for cash the receiver would 
have to take less for his goods, and the shipper would as a 
result get smaller returns. The seller, in his anxiety to 
pleasethe shipper, beat his rivals and builds up his busi- 
ness, often takes chances in this way he afterwards regrets. 

Many years ago, when the force of competition was not 
felt so keenly, there was more to be said in favor of the 
business, and no less inviting field exists at present for a 
man desiring to go into business. Many have tried it here 
and elsewhere of late years to their sorrow. They found 
trying to do a paying business competing with old estab- 
lished and long experienced firms next to impossible; that 
not only considerable money but also a wide experience was 
essential to success in the undertaking, and that it required 
several years to even secure a paying patronage. We have 
in our long experience seen so many young men, generally 
offshoots of old firms, start out full of hope and soon after 
find oblivion, that we are competent to write at length on 
the subject, and hint advisedly in the foregoing remarks. 

The long hours and long days inseperable from the busi- 
ness for at least s'ix to seven months every year, say from 
the 1st of April to the 15th of October, or later, is a serious 
situation that force of competition compels you to face. 
That means 14 to 16 hours work daily, about double the 
hours of union labor. 

THE DRUMMING QUESTION 

Is one of the most provoking to the receivers or dealers, as 
well as shippers. It imposes on the commission men a 
heavy tax they have in vain sought to avoid. At fruit- 
growers' conventions and meetings, the subject comes up 



76 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

for discussion occasionally, and resolutions adopted, set- 
ting forth, that houses hiring drummers or local solicitors 
will not be patronized, etc. It is equally true, that later, 
or before the first case of strawberries is ready, it takes 
only the eloquence of the average drummer to secure it for 
his house, and the foregoing resolutions, subscribed to by 
the shipper, wholly ignored. When the season is fairly un- 
der way the best solicitor or talker, no matter how poor 
or irresponsible his house may be, usually succeeds in get- 
ting the most, at least for a while, until the returns begin 
to come in, when he can be found equally industrious at 
other points, and thus while working up a fine business 
keeps out of the reach of disappointed shippers. 

The result is, every firm, no matter how old, reliable, or 
responsible, or how good figures it can secure, will get left 
unless it has a man on the grounds to fight for his share. 
Thus, in self-defense, he is forced to hire a solicitor and 
place him where the shipper says (at the meetings) he is 
not wanted. So the shipper after all, creates the evil he 
complains of, and sustains it. 

RECEIVERS UNJUSTLY BLAMED. 

As a sample of how commission men can be unjustly cen- 
sured, we will relate an experience of our own which oc- 
curred recently. One of our Missouri apple shippers, whom 
we esteem very much for his liberal patronage, made a 
shipment which we reported by wire same day received — ■ 
as in bad order, slack barrels, specks, faulty fruit and bad 
packing generally. On receipt of the wire he replied we 
must be mistaken, that it could not be his fruit. We tel- 
egraphed him to come down on the first train, and if we 
were wrong would pay the expenses of the trip, an offer 
he accepted. We showed him his fruit, which he admitted 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 77 

was his, opened some barrels not yet touched, and Sound 
them about same as those complained of. He expressed a 
great deal of surprise at its condition and how it depreciat- 
ed in value in such a short time. He saw then very forc- 
ibly the result of rough handling of fruit whidh should be 
carefully hand-picked, and the poor economy in hiring cheap, 
green hands for the picking and packing of his apples. He 
admitted the fault lay chiefly with the help, who did not 
follow his instructions in packing. His trip paid him and 
ourselves, too. We could cite a number of similar in- 
stances in which commission merchants were denounced 
without any foundation for it. 

YOU CHARGED ME TOO MUCH! 

Every receiver has this charge frequently thrown at him 
by more or less angry shippers, whenever the railroad com- 
pany or express company makes a mistake or overcharge. 
Now, we have nothing more to do with the making of these 
charges than the man in the moon. We have to pay what- 
ever the express company or railroad company demands, 
and if there is anything wrong file your claim, which is in- 
vestigated and straightened out afterwards. 

SLOW RETURNS 

Arise from various causes. Packages come in occasionally 
with no mark visible to indicate who the shipper is — 
the tag or card torn off, or the stencil number is scratched 
or blurred, in the branding, so it cannot be accurately 
reported. If no advice by mail, the receiver has to wait un- 
til he hears from the shipper. Another serious blunder is 
that of the man who uses his neighbor's stencil without 
notifying his firm. The wrong man then gets the returns. 
The importanceof advice by mail is manifest here, or, 



78 SOUTHEBN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

placing in package a slip or card showing your address. 
We will mail free stamp for marking if requested. Re- 
member, each shipper has a different number in his stamp 
or stencil, so if you should use another stencil scratch the 
number on it, or he will get your returns. 

When small shipments come by freight, the most pro- 
voking delay is that caused by the railroad companies 
centering on the east sideof the river in East St. Louis. All 
lots smaller than car loads are turned over to some transfer 
company on arrival. They deliver the goods, but the freight 
bill may not show up or be presented for several days. The 
transfer company is not as prompt collecting these bills as 
they should be, to enable us to report quickly. The rail- 
road companies on arrival of goods, turn them over with 
freight bill to a transfer company, and the transfer charges 
are added to the regular railroad bills — an extra charge not 
always understood by many shippers — and letters of ex- 
plantion are often called for. We send our own teams 
across the river to East St. Louis, 111., whenever these small 
shipments amount to a load or something near it, but pri- 
vate wagons or transfer companies can haul the small lots 
and distribute them at much less cost. 

HINTS TO SHIPPERS. 

A number of shippers, the \new ones especially, when 
they receive a stencil, regard the number on it as the 
street number of the firm sending it out. This number 
really represents the shipper's address — being placed in our 
books opposite his name as soon as sent out. Each has a 
different number. His address on the package in addition 
to stencil number is therefore superfluous. 

The stenciling should be on the cover of the package, 
serving as it does, to keep the right side up. ' Such pack- 



FOB NOB THE BN MABKETS, 79 

ages as strawberry cases should also be branded on both 
ends. 

If you have no stencil, a lead pencil can be used to write 
the firm's address, and your own should follow, writing the 
word "from" between them. 

A shipper frequently borrows his neighbor's stencil, and 
uses it without notifying his commission house, or scratch- 
ing or leaving off the' number. You can see how this will 
complicate matters. Your neighbor will get the returns, 
and if he refuses to settle with you the commission house 
must pay twice or incur your everlasting displeasure. 

If there are any empty boxes in a crate, always make lead 
pencil note of same on cover; and if two or three varie- 
ties are in same package, as is sometimes the case, indi- 
cate it in the same way. 

In the midst of the fruit season every commission house 
is driven to death and has no time to either write or ask for 
explanations. If you do not hear from your shipment 
promptly, you may consider something is wrong; so send 
in a few 4ines asking and giving explantion in connection 
therewith. 

When shipping by freight always notify consignee by 
sending receipts or otherwise. 

Never use large or irregular nails for fruit boxes or 
crates ; such spoil the appearance of the package and injure 
the sale. 

A common error by shippers is that of waiting too long 
before ordering their fruit boxes. They are oUen (retained 
on the way, and frequently the box factory is crowded 
with orders and you must wait, and your fruit is spoiling in 
the meantime. 

The cost of numbered brass stencils is 10 cents, includ- 
ing postage. Numbered rubber stamps, with pads, includ- 



80 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

ing postage, 20 cents. If the surface of your pad becomes 
dry, turn it over when not in use and the ink comes to the 
surface and stays there. 

Whenever practical, fruit should be shipped at night or 
in the evening, getting in this way the benefit of the cool 
atmosphere while in transit. Getting to our market in the 
morning, early as possible, is also an important consider- 
ation. If we could get these goods by 4 o'clock, or a little 
later every morning, then we would be able to secure bet- 
ter prices or results for all shippers. All the best buyers 
have left the street by the time most of these early express 
receipts arrive. The proper remedy is the using of refrig- 
erator cars from which we can get the goods whenever 
needed — late or early, and quantity required. 

Saturday is always the poorest day in the week to sell to 
advantage, as no shipments are made on that day. Thurs- 
days and Fridays are about best selling days, the outside 
order trade on such days being heaviest, and local dealers 
also buy largely on Thursdays and Fridays, all being at 
home at their places of business retailing on Saturday — 
their big day of the week. No business in the produce dis- 
trict Saturday afternoon. 

Avoid as far as possible getting goods into market on 
Saturday evening or Sunday morning. They will keep much 
better in the country than in the city. Monday morning the 
market is usually a little bare, and Sunday night shipments 
strike a good market generally. 

TRANSPORTATION CHARGES. 

This is a very important subject to the fruit grower, espe- 
cially if he is an extensive shipper. The cost of transpor- 
tation has materially checked the cultivation of fruits and 
vegetables in many sections where all other conditions were 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 81 

favorable to the enterprise. Express rates in some in- 
stances are prohibitive, where there are no competing 
lines or companies. Take certain shipping points 
in Southwest Missouri for instance, where it costs much 
more to market fruits than it costs the Arkansas shippers 
situated on the St. Louis, Iron Mountain & Southern Rail- 
road, much further from our market.. However, it is no- 
torious that these companies have agreed rates whenever 
different roads or competition may appear, and that com- 
petition is pratically out of the question. The Inter-State 
Commerce Commission, which is now investigating the ex- 
press companies methods and rates, are going to cut down 
the exorbitant rates prevailing already too long. The Com- 
mission is learning how the millions of dollars declared in 
dividends annually to the stockholders have been made on 
the comparatively small investments of capital by the va- 
rious companies. The Commission has intimated in some 
interviews given to the daily pre%s that the excessive rates 
now being enforced by the express trust should be cut from 
25 to 50 per cent — a consummation devoutly to be wished 
by the plucked people. 

Special Rates can always be had on perishable goods 
from the express companies. New shipeprs, located at 
new points, where special rates are not established, should 
avail themselves of this advantage, and ascertain the 
lowest rates they can secure before they commence ship- 
ping. There is a marked difference between special and 
regular rates. The Florida shippers, for instance, have 
from $2.00 to $3.00 per 100 special rates, while the regular 
is $3.00 to $3.50 to this city. The value of goods and the 
weights of same figure in the case. Heavy goods, like po- 
tatoes, squash, cabbage, celery, etc., carry the lowest rates, 
$2.00 to $2,50 as to distance, 



82 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

DRIED AND EVAPORATED FRUITS 

We handle regularly, as do all fruit commission mer- 
chants, and our shippers can rely on getting at all times the 
best figures the market affords. Barrels are the most ap- 
propriate packages, although sacks and boxes can also be 
used. Do not mix the grades in one package. This latitude 
being much earlier than the more Eastern States, where 
most of the dried and evaporated fruit comes from, ship- 
pers will find it to their advantage to ship as soon as ready 
for market, and not wait until competition springs from 
points further East, New York and New England States, 
which furnish a large portion of the evaporated fruit of 
the country, finds St. Louis a profitable market; and as 
your climate places yuo several weeks earlier in the market, 
you should profit by this opportunity to sell while the mar- 
kets are comparatively bare. 

TO SHIPPERS OF DRIED FRUITS. 

Apples should be carefully peeled and cored, then sliced 
or quartered, placed upon frames and dried in a gentle 
heat. Gnarly or wormy apples should be thrown aside, or 
such places carefully cut out. Peaches may be dried either 
peeled or unpeeled. They sell best if cut in halves. 
Cherries rnust be pitted, and to bring good prices they must 
be very dry, entirely unmixed with sugar. Black rasp- 
berries and blackberries are dried whole, and care must be 
taken that they are not crushed and broken. Apples and 
peaches, to bring best prices, must be bright and light- 
colored; to secure this, they must be dried in a dry air. 
The atmosphere is often so charged with moisture, even 
in sunshine, that it absorbs more moisture very slowly. 
Such an atmosphere is very unfavorable to the drying of 
fruit, the juice evaporating so slowly that it decays and 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 83 

darkens the color. Those who cannot construct drying 
houses should prepare and dry their fruit upon days when 
the air is very dry only, out-of doors, or else in-doors in a 
gentle fire heat and current of air. Apples on strings 
are objectionable. If dried en strings these should be re- 
moved before the apples are packed. 

EVAPORATING. 

Bleaching is done by exposing the fruit in a wooden box 
or special machine, to sulphur fumes. The sooner the 
bleaching is done after the apples are cut the better. Cau- 
tion is necessary not to overbleach the fruit or cause it to 
both taste and smell of sulphur. In different establish- 
ments the heat of the evaporator varies from 95 degrees to 
175 degrees Fahrenheit. The fruit must remain in from 
two to five hours, according to the heat of the air in the 
evaporator. One bushel of apples is estimated to make 
from five to seven pounds of dried fruit. 

BREAKING DOWN THE MARKET. 

Remember, the market is never broken down by good 
fruit. It is the great quantity of poor fruit that oppresses 
the market and forces down prices. We are as interested 
in sustaining the market and prices as you are, because 
when prices are down we get nothing for our labor, and 
hence we urge more good stock and less poor and Indif- 
ferent stuff. How much more profitable and satisfactory 
to get $20.00 net from ten packages fruit, than to get only 
the same sum from twenty packages. 

Remember, the packages used for poor fruit costs as 
much, and the freight, drayage and all expenses just as 
much on the inferior as on the best goods — reducing the 



84 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

net proceeds to a mere trifle. No profit can be made ship- 
ping poor perishables of any kind. 

ABOUT DISTRIBUTION. 

This is a subject that is agitating the minds of a great 
number of producers. It is the main topic at every gather- 
ing of producers, in Tennessee, Arkansas, Texas, Missouri, 
Kentucky and elsewhere. Frequent meetings have been 
called and held the past several years to discuss the 
all-absorbing theme, but so far without many beneficial re- 
sults. There has been a great lack of concert of action 
between the shipping points most interested. Petty jeal- 
ousies and selfish motives sometimes exist and destroy 
the pleasant relations that should exist between rival 
points. Take Arkansas and West Tennessee, for instance, 
who begin shipping about the same time every year. To 
a great extent they patronize the same markets and 
should have communication by wire each morning be- 
tween the few leading points who ship by car load, and 
learn where each was going that day, they could in this 
way largely avoid the disastrous clashing that reduced their 
returns in past years. 

There is such a wide range of territory, so many paying 
markets when judiciously reached or patronized, that there 
is room for all as a rule. Surely it does not require a mas- 
ter mind to avoid the costly experience arising to the Ar- 
kansas and West Tennessee strawberry shippers of late 
years. On some days Minneapolis, St. Paul, Milwaukee, 
Omaha, or Denver, were crowded, while other good mar- 
kets were almost bare. Two days later the situation 
may be reversed— each day showing unequal distribution, 
a scarcity here and a surplus there'. Kansas City, St 
Louis, Chicago, Indianapolis, Cleveland, Cincinnati or De- 






FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS* 85 

troit are all within your reach, and if you find this vast 
field too crowded to meet your views, you can still go furth- 
er East, Pittsburg, Philadelphia, New York, Buffalo, or else- 
where. Your berries, tomatoes and peaches should go to 
all these points successfully in refrigerator cars. 

By intelligent action of this kind, the smaller points and 
isolated shippers, too, would be vastly benefited, as the 
more equal distribution of the larger shipments would af- 
ford them considerable protection, no matter where they 
shipped to. 

To properly begin you should select, in advance, a good 
reliable, experienced firm in each of these markets, and 
we know of no better ones than those whose cards can be 
found elsewhere in this book. You should have a wire daily 
from each market, explaining the situation, With reports 
daily on your desk from these leading markets, and with 
the additional knowledge before you of what rival points 
are doing that day, and where they are shipping to, you 
are in a position to act intelligently and for the best in- 
terest of all concerned. 

It is true there are some additional rival shipping points, 
but they do not seriously figure in the case, when you 
know what your principal competitors are doing. The 
suggestions offered apply to all other districts, as well as 
the points mentioned. 

A few years ago the Associations of Southwest Missouri, 
Northern Arkansas and Oklahoma, embracing about twen- 
ty four different organizations, got together, selected an 
agent and placed him at the junction at Nichols, Mo., through 
which fruit from the three states named passed daily. He got 
the billing in advance of all these cars from the various 
shipping points, and changed the destination of many 
cars, thus making a more even distribution. He discovered 



86 80 UTHEBN FB TJITS AND VE GE TABLES 






six cars strawberries in one day, billed to Des Moines, 
Iowa, out of the total output that day of 17 cars. This 
was a sample of the errors likely to arise. He diverted 
five of those cars, as one was ample for Des Moines, and 
thus saved hundreds of dollars to the shippers in this one 
day's work. On another occasion he found three cars out 
of the whole run of 12 cars going to Lincoln, Neb., and as 
they were from parties outside the Union they could not 
be stopped, but the result can be imagined. 

BENEFIT OF ORGANIZING. % 

The following paper on "Should Producers Organize to 
Market Their Products?" was prepared by the writer and 
read before the National League of Commission Merchants 
at one of their late annual conventions. It briefly covers 
the ground and this work is an appropriate place for it: 

Should Producers Organize) to Market Their Products? 

Most of the receivers of perishable products will answer 
this query in the affirmative, because a great many valid 
reasons may be advanced to show the benefits arising from 
organization. The pioneers in successful organization were 
the fruit growers of California. In the early stages of their 
efforts to grow fruits and vegetables for distant markets, 
they were beset by obstacles difficult to surmount. The 
item of distance to paying markets and the question of 
transportation and rates called for the ablest men in the 
industry. Powerful corporations had to be handled in the 
interest of the producer; living rates, faster time and im- 
proved methods were demanded, and the railroads saw the 
wisdom of yielding, as the concessions tended to largely 
increase their business every year — and the enormous 
traffic which followed is no longer news to anybody. 



FOB NOBTHEBN MARKETS. 87 

The further from market the greater the need of getting 
together, as the risk increases with the distance. In this 
connection, the routing and distribution of the goods be- 
comes very important, and cannot be successfully handled 
without organization. Wherever there is any considerable 
number of growers or shippers, steps should be taken to- 
wards organization. Elect officers to direct affairs for the 
coming season. Good, responsible, experienced firms should 
be selected to handle your products in every city you desire 
to reach. 

Such firms are bound to take better care of your in- 
terests than of individuals, because there is more at stake, 
and the merchant realizes that if he makes a mistake or at 
any time misleads you in his advices, he is likely to be 
dropped for somebody else. One telegram or letter serves 
all — and the labor saved at both ends, by dealing with one 
man instead of twelve or fifty, becomes apparent. The 
commission man charges the association 7 instead of 10 
per cent, and it really pays him better, because of work 
and time saved. 

In dealing with transportation companies and other cor- 
porations, your claims would receive attention where the in- 
dividual would fail; recalling the old adage that in 
"Union there is strength." In buying your packages, fer- 
tilizers, seeds or anything else needed by the community, 
you can secure better terms than an individual. All sorts 
of concessions are made to such bodies, the profits be- 
ing greater and the risks less — all of which is natural and 
customary in every channel of trade. Incidentally, the iso- 
lated shippers at the smaller shipping points are protect- 
ed to a beneficial extent, as the unions and larger bodies 
elsewhere, who are posted daily by wire, in a great measure 
even up and save all the markets. 



SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 
Much more might be written showing the necessity of 
unions and organized bodies, without which the industry 
cannot produce all it is capable of at any shipping point. 
It might be urged by some that these unions have a ten- 
dency to flock to leading firms in each city. This, however 
need not necessarily follow, as unions, like individuals, go 
to different firms, and they will continue to do so, as they 
increase and see the necessity for it. 

Cost of Distribution of Fruits and Vegetables. 
There is no denying the fact that the farmer, gardener 
and fruit grower believes that too much money is consumed 
by the class they call middlemen, and, therefore, the vital 
. question with many is how to reduce the cost of placing 
their products before the consumer. I know there are 
hundreds who can handle this topic in an entertaining and 

TZZr nn Z' and ' SlnCere,y h ° Pe they wiI1 — 
subbing s °™thing better than the writer is 

I am convinced that an intelligent discussion of this 

tween" V rem0V6 "*** ° f ** SUPP ° S6d ^cles *«■ 

tween shipper and receiver, and enable all concerned to 

2sJ 17 Se T T ' and eStabHsh a con fl°ence that should 
exist between the two parties, neither of whom can exist 
or succeed without the aid of the other. To begin w*h the 
commission merchant, middleman or distributor, or what 
ever you see fit to call him, is a necessity-a fixture impot 
sib e to dispense with. He has always existed since there 
was anythmg to distribute, and he is a fixture for all time 
There are certain fixed facts in commercial life that ^n 
not be removed or displaced, and the man who runs count- 
er to hem will get hurt. Indeed, it might be said that 
here u a growing, need of the services of the distr bu- 
tor, as evidenced in the advent pf the "broker," wh 



FOB K OB THEBN MA BKE TS. 89 

handles some of the products of the fruit grower and truck 
farmer. Some shippers and receivers, too, regard the 
broker as a new and unnecessary tax on the business — an- 
other commission — that might be dispensed with in the 
handling of perishables. It is doubtful, however, if the 
class engaged in reaching the consumer is growing or de- 
veloping as rapidly as the food products to be handled. 

Therefore, the grower and middlemen are as separate 
and distinct as the man who makes the watch from the 
man who wears it, and yet so inseparable that the maker 
cannot exist without the other. However, the commission 
merchants do not and cannot in any commercial center cov- 
er all the ground between grower and the consumer. 
There are additional expenses to those of the merchant it 
seems impossible to avoid. One-twentieth of the con- 
sumers do not and will not go to the commission man, 
since he cannot retail. From first hands it goes to the 
grocer, the butcher, the peddler — to all classes of retailers, 
and they must make sufficient margin to live. The 
margins outlined so far do not, however, cover 
all charges. Every large city has a number of 
small jobbers and traders, who buy from first hands and 
then sell to all classes of retailers. They buy in big lots, 
and therefore, a little cheaper than the small retailer, and 
they build up a clientage of their own local order trade, 
goods which they deliver all over the city. Then there is 
the country order trade which another class of merchants 
take care of, quoting out prices regularly, both by wire 
and mail, which usually affords a fair living to prudent 
and economical operators. 

The producer will now see that there are several classes 
of regular distributors for which each has to be fully 
equipped to properly care for. And yet it seems impossible 



90 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

to dispense with the services of either class. The perish- 
able character of the goods calls for more labor, anxiety 
and greater speed in disposing of such products than is 
necessary in the marketing of the more staple products. 

GOOD MISSIONARY WORK. 

We are always averse to complimenting oursedves on 
any work that we may have done from time to time, but 
the writer takes this opportunity to say that indirectly at 
least every commission merchant and fruit distributor in 
the principal markets of the country has been more or less 
benefited by the advice and instructions the writer has 
furnished the shippers and producers through this little 
book, which has been going out regularly the past thirty 
years. The thousands of workers for whose benefit this 
work is published have been benefited and have cheer- 
fully acknowledged it in hundreds of letters received 
every year. We feel, therefore, we have done something 
in the way of missionary work all these years, both for 
the producer and dealer and distributor, and feel assured 
that our labors in the good ca ;s-3 have not been barren of 
good results. They have been appreciated to a gratifying 
extent by all concerned. 

WHAT OF THE FUTURE? 

The business of growing fruits and vegetables for com- 
mercial purposes is being in a measure, revolutionized 
every few years. These changes and disturbing elements 
arise from various causes, largely the force of competition, 
both from old fields and new points, increased transporta- 
tion facilities, lower freight rates and kindred agencies. The 
close observer cannot fail to see that these agencies, often 
unforeseen and unexpected, must be met by adopting the 



FOB NOR TIIERN MARKE TS. 91 

best and most approved methods in everything pertain- 
ing to the business: The fittest will survive. This is the 
inevitable law we must all bow to. In a word, there will 
be less room in the future for poor and inferior goods, 
whether fruits, vegetables or other products, and no show 
at ail for those who practice more or less deception in 
packing their goods. 

In packing and marketing fruits the pace has been set 
by the Californians. Necessity was sure enough the moth- 
er of invention in their case. They had to excel in every 
move, in every labor. The fruits and vegetables of the peo- 
ple of the Golden State had to be not only the most attrac- 
tive offered, but the picking, packing, grading, marketing, 
etc., had in a similar manner to excel, to profitably reach 
the very distant markets of the country. When the grow- 
ers and producers of other States display the same skill 
and pains to excel in their special field they will secure 
something like what the business, intelligently pursued, is 
capable of yielding. 

Therefore, if you are going to remain in the business, 
you must follow as closely as possible the example of 
the men who get big prices for their fruits. You may an- 
swer that the California fruit cannot be approached by 
the best directed efforts in the other States, lacking the 
climate and very favorable conditions existing there and 
agoso essential to success. That was in the main true years 
ago, but we have shown under the head of peaches, that 
the honors are divided between many states — Arkansas 
making of late years the greatest showing. If you can- 
not raise fruit that so readily catches the eye, you 
can exercise the same care in picking, packing and 
marketing the fruit you have. You can throw out every 
specimen that is faulty and inferior — especially when this 



92 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

poor stuff that destroys the sale of the other can be other- 
wise utilized by drying or evaporating it. You can at 
least use the neatest and most presentable packages. How- 
ever, you do not have to equal the Californians in the 
quality, size or color of fruit to make the business profit- 
able. California's enormous freight charges prove a big off- 
set to other advantages. 

We have had peaches from Georgia — the Elberta — as 
handsome, attractive and as well packed and marketed as 
any that ever left California, but the shippers practised 
their methods as closely as they could be followed, and 
this fruit brought here at the time not only the ruling 
rate, but beat the average California product. 

In a flying trip I made through the principal Eastern 
cities 7 or 8 years ago, I found that the finest peaches that 
reached the leading markets that season — not excepting 
California or any other stock — came to them from Mis- 
souri, from Koshkonong, Oregon county, in the most south- 
ern part of the State, near Arkansas. The fruit was so 
large, handsome and perfect that it created a genuine sen- 
sation in all the big Eastern markets. However, Arkansas 
must be credited with having the banner peach orchards of 
the country, as shown by her shipments to the principal 
market the past four years. 

HIGHLAND (ARKANSAS) PEACHES. 

This locality is in Pike county, southwest Arkansas, 100 
miles south of Little Rock. The first planting for com- 
mercial purposes was in 1904 by the Arkansas Orchard 
Planting Company. Mr. J. M. Patterson, of St. Louis, Mo., 
was treasurer and organizer of the company and had 
charge of the distribution of the fruit. Our firm (P, M. 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 93 

Kiely & Co.) sold the first car four years ago on the St. 
Louis market, bringing over $1,200, breaking all previous 
records. This car proved a genuine sensation. I know that 
last season the Arkansas Orchard Planting Co. and the Pat- 
terson. Orchard Co. adjoining, sold a number of cars f. o. b. 
shipping point at $2.50 per 6-basket crate, over $1,100.00 a 
car. 

The fine flavor, high color and carrying quality of the 
fruit from Highland made a lasting impression. It is said 
that for 50 years there has not been a crop failure, at- 
tributed to the soil, climate, and perfect AIR DRAINAGE 
SYSTEM. Until recently orchardists gave little credit to 
the air drainage theory. It is now a recognized factor and 
a great saving to the orchardist, for it does away with 
heaters and smudge pots. 

Air, like water, by the laws of gravitation, travels in 
currents. Cold air is heavier than the warm air, conse- 
quently on spring nights as the air chills and becomes 
frosty, it goes to the low land and valleys and the warm 
air naturally rises to take its place. 

The Highland orchards are on the southern and western 
slopes of the ridge surrounded on the north and east by 
abrupt bluffs from 100 to 300 feet, which leads off into a 
valley from one to five miles wide. This gives a perfect 
air drainage system. On cool nights in the spring there will 
be a difference in temperature of from 10 to 15 degrees be- 
tween the valley and the top of the ridge. 

This ridge is rapidly being developed into peach orchards 
and truck farms for most kinds of fruit and vegetables do 
well there. 

Mr. Patterson, besides his interest in the Arkansas Or- 
chard Planting Company, has developed some 500 acres, 
known as The Patterson Orchard Company, and is now as- 



94 SOUTHERN' FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

sociated with Mr. Johnson, President of the Arkansas Or- 
chard Planting Co., one of the best known orchardists in 
the country, in the development and sale of some 800 acres 
addtional, known as The Bert Johnson Orchard Company. 
These men now own and control about 3,000 acres of com- 
mercial peach orchards at Highland, Ark. 

Last season (1911) these peaches were sold in Boston, 
New York, Bridgeport, Philadelphia, Pittsburg, Columbus, 
Cleveland, Indianapolis, Detroit, Chicago, St. Louis and 
many other large markets. Prices ran as high as $4.25 for 
6 basket carriers, breaking all previous peach records. 
New York City had 2 cars one day that averaged $4.00 
crate— the next day 2 cars at $3.50 to $3.75. Philadelphia 
had 2 cars one day that averaged $3.50, while the smaller 
markets sold $3.00 to $3.25, as shown by the trade papers at 
the time. 

THE APPLE TRAFFIC. 

As an additional illustration, take the apple traffic. New 
York State growers and shippers, and practically .ail the 
New England States, embrace largely the model packers 
and cultivators, with Michigan close to them. When the 
New York fruit is offered in this market, the examination 
of one barrel of each variety offered satisfies the general 
wholesale buyer, but if the fruit is from a Western packer 
or producer, as a rule a large number of barrels must be 
opened at both ends, and then the purchaser invariably digs 
clown into the middle of the barrel before he can form any 
accurate idea of what he is getting, and after a rigid exam- 
ination is made, doubts still •exist. Now, it might be said 
that there is plenty of packing done in Western orchards 
equal to the best anywhere, but it is done as a rule by or 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 95 

under the supervision of some speculator, who has bought 
the orchard, and who is an expert in the art of picking 
and packing fruit. 

I recall a few hours among the apple buyers at Lock- 
port, N. Y., a famous shipping town. As each farmer drove 
up with his 12 barrels, which fitted in his wagon, the buyer 
climbed in, took out a piece of the heading of one barrel — 
that was sufficient — just a glance at the face of the barrel. 
The price was fixed at once and the examination did not 
average over two or three minutes. So much for perfect 
packing. 

Columns of such instances might be cited where fruit 
growing, packing and shipping yield fair profits when in- 
telligently pursued. Therefore, I claim that relief can 
come only through channels indicated: Better cultiva- 
iton, better work and methods, getting as near as possible 
to the models singled out. 

WHY THE COMMISSION MERCHANT DOES NOT BUY. 

A number of shipping associations and individuals do 
not seem to understand why the commission merchants 
do not buy their various crops f. o. b. at depot, where 
grown and packed. It can be said that there are a number 
of valid reasons for declining to do so. 

To begin with, the very perishable character of most of 
the crops constitutes one reason why capital may not be 
invested in them. Even if willing to take such chances, 
additional risks are involved. Delays, injurious weather, 
and other mishaps en route often prove fatal to the 
investment. Then the risks are considerable when the 
buyer is not on the grounds to inspect the quality and 
condition of the goods to be shipped. There is a wide 



96 SOUTHEBK FBTJITS AND VEGETABLES 

difference of opinion as to what constitutes first-class 
stock, likewise as to its condition. The products pro- 
nounced choice m one section of the country would grade 
second-class in another district, so that the man who is 
not on the ground has no positive assurance as to what 
he is realy getting. The packing, grading, etc., so es- 
sential to success, is another important feature to con- 
sider. However, admitting all the conditions so far were 
favorable to the enterprise, there is still another risk to 
meet. 

The merchant has no means of knowing how many 
other points or parties are about to ship to his market 
similar goods and at the same time. Were this informa- 
tion accessible there would be some legitimate ground to 
stand on in making an effort to buy outright. The weath- 
er, too, is often an important factor, as the rigors of win- 
ter as well as summer have much to do in determining the 
value of perishables on their arrival at destination. 

At best capital is timid even under favorable condi- 
tions for investment, and when put into such perishable 
goods as will not at times stand up over 48 hours it must 
be regarded as in jeopardy. There are too many invit- 
ing fields for capital and there is really no necessity for 
taking such risks where the prospective profits are so 
small. 

When you approach such products as apples, for in- 
stance, which have some claims as a staple article, you will 
observe the fruit dealer, packer and speculator jumps in 
and takes hold. He buys without hesitation, and at figures 
that sometimes bring him out on the wrong side of the deal. 
There is really no class of investors who display as much 
nerve and enterprise as the apple speculators of the 
country. They build and support cold storage plants and 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 



97 



establish in a measure a fixed value for every barrel of 
good apples in the country, regardless of the size of the 
crops. Their enterprise, industry and hard work have 
served to make the orchards of the country valuable to 
their owners, and they have added largely to the wealth 
of the fruit rasing sections of the country. It might be 
added that there are firms in every large city with such a 
big following that they are busy all the year round selling 
goods on commission and have neither the time or in- 
clination to properly consider the purchasing or specula- 
tive problem. Their commission business first of all must 
be protected. That will not stand any neglect whatever. 



ft % 




98 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

CABBAGE. 

Can be found in our market steadily throughout the year, 
the old and new crop appearing side by side in January, 
February, March and April, and the price of new stock 
largely governed by the quantity of old cabbage on the 
market. The first receipts last year were surprisingly 
late, about two months later than the usual first receipts 
— a carload from Mobile, which did not show up till the 
24th of March, selling at $2.40 crate. On the same date 
there was still on hands, in every market at low prices, 
the old crop being enormous — especially in New York and 
Wisconsin. Old cabbage the first week in January were 
$10.00 to $14.00 ton. By the 15th of January the figures 
were $16.00 to $19.00 ton. By the 1st of February the 
market was crowded with fine old stock and prices much 
lower, $10.00 to $12.00 ton. February 15th market dull 
through excessive offerings. March the 1st we find it 
quoted at $10 to $12.00 ton. March 15th slow at $11.00 to 
$12.00, and on the 24th when car new Mobile stock came in, 
New York Damish sold at $12.00 to $15.00 ton delivered. On 
the 1st of April we find old stock much higher, $22.00 to 
$25.00 ton, while new cabbage went the other way, Mobile 
and Florida stock averaging about $1.75 crate. April 15th 
the price current reads: 

Cabbage — Dragging and weak; limited demand for fancy 
green Alabama; Florida stock selling for charges or less, 
several cars refused by consignees. Quote choice old Dan- 
ish at $10.00 to $12.00 per ton del. New Alabama at $1.00 
to $1.10 per crate del.; Florida at 60c to $1.00 per crate del. 

On May 1st, here is the report: 

Cabbage — Market higher on choice fresh stock in good 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 99 

order, and demand fair. Quote Alabama $1.50 per crate 
del. for choice and $1.00 (trimmed) for stock off in condi- 
tion; Florida Cabbage (trimmed) at $1.00 per crate del. Old 
N. Y. Danish quotable at $10@12 per ton bulk del. On or- 
ders dealers charge 50c per crate advance on first hand 
price for new. Sales: 1 car Mobile at $1.50 del., 2 cars 
Alabama at $1.50 del. for choice and $1.00 (trimmed) for off 
stock. 

For the following two weeks Alabama and Mississippi 
furnishing most of the cabbage. Crystal Springs ship- 
ping daily fine stock, all their cars coming iced. Here is 
the report May 15th: 

Cabbage — Barely steady; demand quiet and offerings lib- 
eral. Quote Mobile at $1.00@1.10 and other Alabama re- 
ceipts at $1.00@1.25. per crate del.; Mississippi (Crystal 
Springs) at $1.80 trk. and $1.90 del.. Sales: 1 car Alabama 
at $1.10 @ 1.25 del., 1 car Mobile at $1.10 del., part car do at 
$1.00 del., 1 car Mississippi Crystal Springs at $1.80 trk., 
part car do at $1.90 del. 

From the 15th May to June 1st receipts largely from Al- 
abama and Mississippi. Mobile stock showing more or less 
decay or damage, being without ice, while Crystal Springs 
have been coming daily in splendid condition, cars being 
well iced. Local freight ships from small points in both 
states usually a little off in condition. Here is the mar- 
ket June 1st: 

Cabbage — Easier. Quote Mississippi (Crystal Springs) 
at $3.00 @ 3.15 per crate del., local freight lots Alabama 
$1.75 to $2.25 del. Home-grown sold at 40c per bu. loose. 
Sales: 25 crates Ala. at $2.25 del., lot Texas (in mixed 
car) at $2.75 del., part car Miss. (Crystal Springs) at $3.00 
Del., part car do at $3.15 del. 

Home-grown now well started and you are no longer in- 



100 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

terested in the course of the market. After this time St. 
Louis becomes a shipper of cabbage instead of a receiver 
and distributor. She reaches many markets for a month 
or six weeks. The several firms here who make kraut get a 
big start very soon with the local crop. The shipments 
from here all go out crated, no bulk shipments unless on 
rare occasions, through special orders. 

July 1st only home-grown in market and prices low. Fine 
stock crates and in good shipping order, $1.25 to $1.50 
crate. 

On the 1st of August we find good home-grown scarce at 
2^0 lb. loose. Northern stock is already coming. Wiscon- 
sin selling $50 to $60 ton bulk delivered. Two cars Chicago 
crated sold at $3.00 to $3.25 crate. 

On Sept. 1st home-grown still coming and selling at 80c 
per 100 lbs. Ohio is shipping 90-lb. crates which are sell- 
ing at 85c crate. Iowa bulk coming and selling at $18.00 
ton delivered. Colorado cabbage is also arriving and selling 
at $1.00 to $1.25 per crate delivered. 

October 1st Wisconsin Holland seed selling at $13.00 to 
$14.00 ton delivered. Domestic, Michigan or Wisconsin, 
dull, $10.00 ton delivered, going largely to kraut makers. 
Home-grown from farmers' wagons 30c to 40c per 100 lbs. 

On the first of November the market report reads as 
follows : 

Cabbage — Higher and firm. Quote Holland seed in bulk 
at $15.00 to $18.00 per ton del. and domestic at $12.00 per 
ton on track. Red Cabbage in bulk at $25@30 per ton. 
del. Home-grown sold at 50c per 100 lbs. from farmers' 
wagons. Sales: 1 car bulk domestic at $12.00 track, 2 cars 
Holland seed at $16.00 track, 2 cars do at $15.00@16.00 del., 
2 loads do at $18.00 del., part car bulk Red cabbage at $25.00 
per ton del. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 101 

During this month the market braces up and prices 
steadily advance so that by the first of December there is 
no trace of any home-grown and the report reads as fol- 
lows : 

Cabbage — Market strong; demand good. Sales: 1 car 
Holland seed at $28.00 per ton on track invoice wts. ($28.00 
bid on track and refused for New York Danish), load bulk 
and 1 car skd. Holland seed at $30.00 del., 1 car and 2 
loads bulk Danish at $30.00 del., load skd. do at $32.00 del. 

We have now taken you through the cabbage market 
here for a whole year from the 1st of January to Decem- 
ber, showing the prices prevailing during 1911, where your 
competition springs from during the season. 

It should be said before dismissing the subject that 
the crop of 1911 was enormous and the prices the lowest in 
years, while the Southern crop was seeking a market. 
Strangely enough this year, to date, March 30th, 1912, 
shows the other extreme — for Florida, Texas, Alabama, 
Mississippi and Louisiana showing more than double the 
prices of the previous year — so that the two years or sea- 
sons strike a fair average. 

Large heads never sell as well as small to medium size 
ones. Small solid heads always keep longer and command 
the best prices. The Florida product comes nearer the 
dealer's wants than that from any other States, and the 
same may be said of the California offerings, and their 
crates (100 pounds net) are the most desirable packages 
for long shipments, especially in hot weather, when de- 
cay sets in all too soon. The crates from Mississippi, 
Louisiana, Alabama, Texas and Tennessee usually weigh 
175 to 200 pounds gross. No southern state should shin 
such large cabbage crates. If they will confine themselves 
to 115 to 120 lbs. gross receipt or about 100 lbs. net they will 



102 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

secure the best results. Alabama sometimes uses the Flor- 
ida 100-lb. crate. West Tennessee also uses 60-lb. crates. 

Mark the number of heads on each crate, whenever pos- 
sible. The buyer wants to know this that he may figure 
more accurately on first cost and what to retail at. 

The Early Winningstadt, Early Jersey, Wakefield and 
Holland seed cabbages are the best varieties for long ship- 
ments from the South. The Danish is the New York stock 
and Holland seed, the Wisconsin favorite, small solid heads. 

As the weather grows warmer greater care must be 
exercised. It should be nicely trimmed, and though a few 
more heads are necessary to fill the crate, the work will 
pay well. It must be tightly packed for the natural shrink- 
age, especially in such weather, is considerable, and no 
inferior, wilted, overripe, or damaged heads should be 
packed or shipped. Western New York is a big contribu- 
tor to this market during the winter and spring months 
and her stock is usually fine, and so is Wisconsin. 

CUCUMBERS. 

The first receipts appeared as usual, the first week in 
January. In fact, fresh receipts of cukes can be had any 
week in the year — we might say every day in the year. 
First receipts can no longer be referred to. The offerings 
are continuous. This review shows the prices throughout 
the year, where from, and other interesting facts of interest 
to all cultivators. Prices remained unchanged for two 
weeks, the receipts being light throughout. Hothouse cu- 
cumbers from the East and New Orleans stock have been 
coming since Christmas and selling mainly at $1.50 doz. 
From the 20th to 25th of January we find the prices steady. 
New Orleans receipts $1.50 dozen and Eastern hot house 
$1.50 to $1.75 dozen. Boston was drawn on for stock all 
through January the past 12 or 13 years, prices usually $1.50 






FOR NORTHERN MARKETS 103 

to $2.00, according to quantity coming. February 1st some 
small and inferior stock were quoted 40 to 75 cents per 
dozen, while good to choice hot house are $1.50 to $2.00 
dozen and Florida $4.00 to $5.00 bushel box. The 5th to 
15th receipts mainly Eastern hothouse, which are $1.75 to 
$2.00 dozen. From the 15th to 25th offerings larger, with 
Eastern $1.50, Florida $2.50 to $3.00 bu. box, and New Or- 
leans 75c to $1.00 dozen. From the 5th to 10th of March 
Eastern and Florida hold the market, the former at $1.25 to 
$1.50, and Florida $2.25 to $3.25 hampers. March 20th here 
is the market report: 

Cucumbers — Quiet and steady. Quote Florida hampers 
at $2.50 to $3.00 for choice green; No. 2 do, nubbiny, etc., 
at $1.50@2.00. New Orleans at $1.00 per dozen. Fancy Il- 
linois hot-house at $2.50@3.00 per box containing 2 dozen- 
small boxes do at $2@2.50. 

On the 1st of April the report reads: 

Cucumbers— Fair demand for choice green; culls, wilted 
and yellow stock neglected. Quote Florida hampers at 
$1.50 for withered and yellow to $1.75 @ 2.25 for choice, 
smooth variety and $2.50 (a) 3.00 for choice to fancy green. 
New Orleans at 60 @ 65c per dozen. 

On the 15th of April market practically unchanged, but 
too much inferior cukes are coming. Florida express 
charges eat up the poor grades — and although netting but 
little, injure the market for the best. 

On the 1st of May here is the report: 

Cucumbers — Slow and easier; free offerings; culls not 
wanted. Quote Florida hampers at $1.25 to $2.00; New 
Orleans sugar brls at $5.00 to $6.00— cull and nubbiny stock 
less. 

May 15th reads. All the hampers referred to are bushel 
hampers. 



104 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

Cucumbers — Plentiful, slow and easier. Quote Texas bu. 
baskets at $1.40 @ 1.50 and crates $1.35 del; Louisiana 
hampers at $1.15@1.25, Alabama hampers at $1.20@1.35; 
Florida offerings (in bad order) not sold, offered for 
charges. 

Southern shippers are no longer interested, as home- 
grown usually appear about this time. 

Never ship a yellow, wilted, stale, overripe, stunted or 
half-grown or overgrown cuqumber, unless you want to 
spoil the sale of all others. Ventilated boxes or barrels 
can be used in shipping. Bushel hampers are, however, 
the best packages, afford better ventilation and do not 
steak up solid in the express cars as boxes and crates do, 
excluding helpful ventilation. 

Prices up to this writing, March 14th, this year, 1&12, 
have been higher. Indeed, the offerings were unsually 
small during January, February and March last year, a fact 
that should not be lost sight of by those figuring on the 
results for next year. 

New Orleans usually ships in flat substantial boxes hold- 
ing 8 to 10 dozen each, wrapped in paper. In May or later, 
when cheap and plenty, they use larger packages and do 
not wrap, shipping in bushel crates and chipped or ven- 
tilated barrels. 

The improved white spine is the most extensively grown 
variety for commercial or shipping purposes. It is rather 
tender and easily injured, and does not stand the rough 
handling the Long Green does, though in flavor and general 
good qualities this is not equal to the former. The Ion: 
green is regarded the best variety for hot house and earl 
iest shipments, when the largest are sought and the small 
ones difficult to sell. If they are cut instead of being 
pulled off the vine, both the cucumber and vine will be 



s 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 105 

benefited thereby. Always mark the number each package 
contains, as the buyer always wants to know how many 
dozen he is getting. Early Fortune is highly prized in 
Florida. 

GREEN PEAS. 

Usually appear here the latter part of January or 1st 
of February. In fact, they can be found here any month in 
the year, but in January and February the receipts are 
often very irregular. Last year first receipts were later 
than usual, the 28th of January; bushel boxes and bushel 
hampers from Florida. They sold at $2.50 to $3.00 hamper 
at which prices they remained for two weeks, the receipts 
being light and all from Florida. From the 15th of February 
ot the 1st of March the receipts were large and prices low- 
er, some damaged and stale, and prices $1.00 to $1.75 bushel 
hamper. From the 15th to 20th the offerings are still from 
Florida, but much better stock, and the market $2.00 to 
$3.00 per hamper, while poor stuff much lower and badly 
neglected. 

From the 20th to 25th of March very fine peas are coming 
from Alabama and selling at $2.50 to $3.00 bushel hampers. 
Florida offerings light and poor in quality, $1.00 to $2.00 
hamper. From the 25th to April 1st some fancy Alabama' 
and Mississippi green fancy stock, which has been very 
scarce for some time, sold $3.00 to $3.25 hamper. Louis- 
iana hampers $2.25 to $2.75. Florida range from $1.00 to 
$2.00, and California $1.00 to $1.25 per 20-lb. box. April 
1st to 15th the prices steadily declined until the 15th of 
April finds the figures $1.00 to $1.50 per bushel hamper. 
Alabama, Mississippi and Louisiana receipts, embrace the 
bulk of the offerings. It rarely pays Florida to ship this 
late or later. 

April the 20th the market report reads: 



106 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

Green Peas — Slow and easier; offerings include consider- 
able spotted, stale and slack-filled packages, which are hard 
to sell. Quote Alabama hampers at 90c @ $1.00 for choice 
fresh green, slack packages, spotted, etc., at 50 @ 75c; Mis- 
sissippi bu. boxes at 75c for slack to $1.00 for well-filled 
boxes. 

On the 1st of May the report reads: 

Green Peas — Fresh receipts light and choice green in fair 
demand; stale and hard very dull. Quote Alabama small 
hampers at 75 @ 90c and large hampers at $1.00 @ 1.25 for 
fresh green; Mississippi bu boxes at $1.00 @ $1.25; and 
hampers (Boonville) at $1.50; Arkansas 1-3-bu. boxes at 
50 @ 60c and in sacks at $1.25 per bu. 

Here is the market May 10th: 

Green Peas — Barely steady; free receipts and fair de- 
mand for choice fresh green. Quote Alabama hampers 
(rather hard and stale) at $1.00; Mississippi hampers 
(Boonville) at $1.20@1.25 and bu. boxes $1.00@1.10; South- 
ern Mississippi long hampers at $1.00 @ 1.15; Arkansas 1-3- 
bu. boxes at 40c and bu. sacks at $1.25. 

May 20th market a trifle lower. Home-grown are now 
coming and you are no longer interested in the market. 

Up to this writing, March 20th, 1912, the market has been 
practically bare of green peas — just a few from Florida and 
California. The very bad weather conditions throughout 
the south the cause of this marked scarcity. 

Green peas are generally a profitable crop for Southern 
growers, when properly handled. The importance of get- 
ing them here green and fresh and in neat, ventilated 
packages like the bushel hampers, must not be lost sight 
of. They don't stack up solid in the express cars, thus 
shutting out vntilation, as do boxes, which have been used 
up to last year, They have the short hamper and the regu- 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 107 

lar bushel hamper. This is confusing and leads to dis- 
putes, especially as to the difference between the two — only 
the regular bushel hamper should be used. A number of 
these packages are reshipped; such bringing the best 
prices, but only the freshest and nicest looking stock, 
properly packed, go to this trade. Peas that are over- 
ripe, discolored or wilted, as some of the receipts appear, 
are almost unsalable in any market. 

Another great mistake is that of picking too soon, be- 
fore half-grown or half-full. The past year a number of 
the boxes used were poorly made, the openings frequently 
permitting the peas to drop out freely every time the box 
was moved. They heat readily in large packages, especially 
in barrels, sacks or tight packages, even when shipped by 
express. They should not be out over two days and nights 
at most, though they cannot be regarded very green or 
fresh if on the way longer than twenty-four hours in the 
warm weather usually prevailing at that time. They heat 
in 12 hours in bushel boxes or larger packages under un- 
favorable conditions. In coming from the far South in Jan- 
uary, February and March the same need does not exist for 
small packages. The weather being so cool then that bush- 
el boxes or hampers come through, as a rule, in good order. 

In packing shake down thoroughly, and a little pressing 
down in fastening cover of the hamper won't hurt them. 
Have them as cool and dry as possible before packing, to 
avoid heating. The least dampness soon heats them, or 
they get mouldy, and the larger the package the greater 
the danger to goods while in transit, especially, unless 
packed under the most favorable conditions. 

A big local seed house here claims "First of All" the 
best early out, others claim Early Alaskas. The early 
May is a prime favorite, while the marrow fats usually 



108 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

look too soon discolored, ripe or stale, many of them from 
Louisiana early in the season. 

STRING BEANS 
Can be had here now every month in the year, strange as 
it may seem. The bean is more of a staple crop than peas, 
covers a wider field, and *is always more profitable to grow 
in the south for northern markets. They keep longer in 
transit and are not quite so perishable under unfavorable 
conditions. As soon as the home crop disappears, usually 
towards the middle of November, new ones show up the 
1st of December, if not earlier, from some part of Uncle 
Sam's broad land. 

The first receipts were surprisingly early, appearing on 
the 25th of November from Florida, sold at $2.00 to $2.50 
per bushel. The first Southern Texas beans appeared No- 
vember 29th, selling at $2.50 to $2.75 bu. hamper. Florida 
beans sold same day $2.75 to $3.00. The demand was in 
excess of the receipts, which were small and irregular un- 
til the 5th to the 10th of December, when the figures are 
$3.00 to $3.50 bu. hamper, all from Florida. From the 14th 
to the 20th the prices are $4.00 to $5.00, the pale color, 
probably the Refugee, selling 50 cents per hamper less 
than the dark green ones. December 30th they are plentier 
and lower, $3.00 to $3.50. 

January 10th to 20th, prices $3.00 to $4.00, according to 
the amount offered. 

February 1st the market report reads: 

String Beans — Quiet and easy; pale-colored beans slow 
and offerings mainly of that kind, wax beans dull too, but 
dark green in fair demand. Quote Florida round green at 
$2.00@2.25 per hamper for pale-colored and $2.50@3.00 for 
dark green; wax beans at $1.75 @ 2.00 for good and $1.00 @ 
1.25 for heated. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 109 

Demand for wax-beans rather limited in this market. The 
round-wax, like the round green, sells 10 to 25 per cent 
higher than the flat varieties. 

The receipts continue steadily and all from Florida, but 
show some decline through increased offerings until the 
8th, when the report reads: 

String Beans — Quiet and steady; fair demand for dark 
round green beans, but pale-colored and flat wax beans 
dull. Quote Florida young tender dark round green at 
$2.50 and choice at $2.00 per hamper and flat wax at $1.50 
— spotted less. 

Ten days later we find the receipts from Florida are 
gradually increasing, so the 18th reads: 

String Beans — Barely steady; demand quieter today 
and offerings ample. Quote Florida hampers fancy young 
dark green at $1.75@2.00, coarse do and pale at $1.25@1.50, 
wax beans at $1.50 @1. 75. 

March the 1st we see Florida is still the sole contributor 
and the receipts lighter and prices higher and apparently 
better stock: 

String Beans — Higher and firm on fancy dark green; 
pale-colored slow. Quote Florida hampers young dark 
green at $2.50 and pale-colored green at $1.65 @ 1.75. 

Strangely enough, from the above date we find a gradual 
advance in values till the 15th of March, when the re- 
port reads: 

String Beans — Choice green in good demand. Florida 
hampers pale selling at $2.50 to $2.75 and $3.25 for dark 
round green; but a lot of 15 hampers pale, in bad order 
(delayed in transit) sold at $1@1.25; and 10 hampers do 
at $2@2.25. 

On the first of April Florida is still holding the fort and 
the daily price current reads: 



110 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

String Beans — Scarce; fancy dark green beans in good 
demand; coarse, spotted and inferior stock not moving. 
Quote Florida hampers at $3.00 for pale to $3.50 to $3.65 for 
fancy dark green; crates (stale, coarse and spotted) at 
$1.00. 

By the 15th of April we find Florida, Louisiana, lower 
coast and New Orleans and Texas shipping, hence offerings 
much larger and prices lower, as follows: 

String Beans — Moving slowly, and supply considerably in 
excess of requirements; Texas and Florida growth more 
or less coarse, spotted and ropy, but New Orleans and 
Louisiana offerings of good quality. Quote Louisiana (Low- 
er Coast and New Orleans) hampers choice round green 
and wax at $2.25; Texas hampers round green at $2.00 @ 
2.25 for choice and $1.00 @ 1.50 for coarse (some refused), 
1-3 bu. baskets wax at 75c, hampers flat green at $1.00 to 
$1.50 and wax at $1.25 to $2.00; Florida hampers round 
green at $1.25 to $2.00 as in quality. 

On the 1st of May the offerings are represented from sev- 
eral points in Florida, Louisiana, Alabama, Texas and 
Southern Mississippi. Mobile is shipping in solid car loads 
and the condition of the offerings range from very bad to 
choice stock. Here is the report: 

String Beans — Lower, market depressed by heavy offer- 
ings, which included fresh and delayed shipments, and a 
large portion out of condition— ^nested, stale, heated. A 
car Mobile hampers round green (delayed) selling at $1.50 
to $1.65, del.; early express receipts from Alabama from 
$1.25 for dirty and spotted to $1.75 @ 2.00 for choice to fancy 
(mainly $1.75@1.85), later express receipts at $1.50@1.65 
and freight at $1.50@1.60, also a delayed freight shipment 
of 100 hampers at $1.35. Louisiana offerings (from both 
Lower Coast and New Orleans) also included a good deal 



I 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. Ill 

in bad order — nested and poor round green selling at 50c 
to $1.00 per hamper and fair to fancy at $1.25 to $2.00, and 
hampers wax beans at 50c to $1.25; Texas hampers (nested) 
at 75c — choice worth $1.50; Florida hampers choice round 
green at $1.75 @ 2.00 and coarse at $1.00 @ 1.25. 

On May 15th the receipts are lighter and stock in better 
condition. Report reads: 

String Beans — Weak and lower, under large and exces- 
sive supplies; couple refrigerator cars on sale, besides free 
express receipts. Early, Mississippi hampers fancy solid- 
packed sold at $1.25 in jobbing way delivered, but later ex- 
press receipts just as good sold at $1.00 @ 1.10; a delayed 
shipment (spotted) sold in part from 90c down to 60c; 
Alabama and Louisiana hampers round green sold at $1.00 
@1.10. 

On the 1st of June the market is in better shape, show- 
ing less poor and damaged stock. The report follows: 

String Beans — Steady and firm, with a good demand for 
fresh young beans; coarse, spotted, heated and ropy stock 
not wanted. Refrigerator car Mississippi bu. bxs. and 
hampers selling at $1.50. Quote Alabama freight receipts 
at $1.25@1.35 and express receipts of round green at $1.35 
@$1.40, and corn beans at $1.00 per hamper, (coarse, 
stale, heated and ropy less) ; Mississippi express receipts 
round green early at $1.25@$1.40 and later at $1.40@1.50. 

On the 15th of June prices are too high — misleading on 
account of the great drouth. Home-grown are now coming 
and prices usually decline steadily after this time. Here 
is the report: 

String Beans — High-priced, because of extreme scarcity 
and the demand for choice green beans unsupplied; yellow 
and ropy stock not wanted — however, some from Mississippi 
offered that wouldn't bring charges. Mississippi choice 



112 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

round green in bu. boxes sold at $2.75 and hampers $2.75 to 
$3.00; Arkansas hampers (short and dry) at $2.25. Home- 
grown round green sold at $2.75 to $3.00. 

Home-grown usually appear about the middle of June 
and take possession of our market till about the middle 
of November, when they disappear for the season. South- 
ern shippers are no longer interested in the course of the 
market here, but the more Northern markets may prove re- 
munerative for weeks yet. 

Fall or later shipments sometimes pay fairly well for a 
limited time. The flat (Early Mohawk) is the earliest. 
The Valentine or round bean, is tenderer and less stringy 
and sells higher. Flat beans always much cheaper than 
the round ones. 

Remember that the light colored or silver colored varie- 
ties are cheaper than the Valentine, yet do fully as well 
in some eastern markets. 

Burpee's stringless green pod bush bean we regard as 
very dsirable and they are also very early. 

Pack some as the pea — though they do not shrink as 
much as the pea whilein transit. They stand shipping bet- 
ter than the pea, especially under favorable circumstances. 

In packing exclude all the moisture possible and let 
them be as cool and dry as circumstances will permit. With 
proper precaution so many will not reach here mouldy. 
Baskets or hampers should be used as they afford more ven- 
tilation than any box. Whether stacked up in express cars, 
freight or refrigerator cars, the bushel hamper will be found 
the best package. 

TOMATOES. 

Tomatoes can be had in this and all large markets every 
month in the year. The Floridans have made wonderful 






FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 113 

progress with the tomato, and to reach all the big trade 
centers far in advance of all others, had to resort to irriga- 
tion at some points. Now very choice Florida tomatoes can 
be found in all the large cities throughout December, Jan- 
uary, February and March, when she has practically no 
competitors. It is true some tomatoes came into the West- 
ern markets during that time from Cuba, California and a 
few points in Southern Texas close to the borders of Mexi- 
co, and also from Mexico. In fact, they have been coming 
somewhat irregular from Tampico, and a few other points 
in Mexico, say from the 15th of January to the 15th of 
March, the past several years. The Florida shipments being 
light and irregular owing to several freezes there the past 
winter, the Mexicans found a better opening here. The 
Florida product is so inviting in size, quality and condition, 
being wrapped in paper, and neatly packed in six-basket 
crates, holding about three pecks (carriers), that all other 
offerings suffer by comparison. This crate is by far the 
best package for the purpose — so well ventilated and ad- 
mirable for shipping purposes. Choice stock is invariably 
looked for in such packages. 

Last year the first tomatoes appeared long before the 
1st of January. The home crop here was practically ex- 
hausted by the 10th of November, and a few days 
later California stock appeared in 4-basket crates, the reg- 
ular California package, holding much more than the so- 
called 4-basket crate used by Texas and other southern 
states. The demand was rather light for the following 
month. 

California held the market at $1.25 to $2.00, depending 
on amount offered, condition, etc., until the 23rd of Decem- 
ber, when Florida stock appeared and sold at $4.00 to $4.50 
crate (carriers). A few days later several Florida crates 



114 . SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

came, but were found too ripe and soft, selling at $2.00 to 
$3.00. 

The first week in January California and Florida were 
exceedingly scarce and very high, the 4-basket California 
stock $3.00, and the Florida carriers $4.00, all fine order. 
Here is the market from the 13th to 18th of January: 

Tomatoes — Fancy sound ripe scarce, but in only limited 
demand. Quote Cuban at $4.00 @ 4.50 per 6-basket crate; 
California at $3.00 per 4-basket crate— off stock less; last 
sale fancy Florida at $6.00 per 6-basket crate. 

On January 25th only Cuban and Mexican stock coming, 
Florida shipments having disappeared for a week. Cuban 
are quoted $3.00 to $3.50 for 6-basket crates and Mexican 
$3.25 to $3.75. February 2nd market same, with California 
offerings at $2.00 for 4-basket crates. 

On February 10th we find Florida and Cuban tomatoes 
selling at same price, $2.00 to $2.50 per 6-basket crates for 
choice, and fancy $3.00 to $3.50, and Mexican fancy $3.25 
to $3.50 for 6-basket crates. By the 15th all grades and 
receiptsscarce r and higher — 25 to 50 cents above last 
quotations. On the 20th Florida $2.50 to $3.00 for choice 
and $3.50 to $4.00 for fancy. Cuban $2.00 to $3.00, as to 
quality and condition, and Mexican 4-basket crates at $1.50. 
On the 25th market is just the same on all. March 1st 
market dull and receipts heavier. Principal offerings from 
Florida and prices $2.25 to $3.00. March 10th report reads: 

Tomatoes — Lower, and slow; market oversupplied. Quote 
Florida 6-basket crates fancy at $1.90 @ 2.00 and choice at 
$1.50 @ 1.65— car sold at $1.90 for fancy and $1.50 for choice 
del.; Mexican lugs at $1.25 @1. 50. Cuban (fancy) slow at 
$2.00@2.25 per 6-basket crate. 

March 20th they are lower by about 15 per cent from the 
above quotations. On the 25th of March they are slightly 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 115 

lower, but on tire 1st of April still lower as this report 
shows: 

Tomatoes — Market unsettled and irregular; supplies ex- 
cessive and quality of offerings show wide variance — a 
good deal of soft and overripe on sale. Quote Florida 6- 
basket crates fancy at $1.35@1.50 del. (soft do $1.00) and 
choice $1.15. 

April 15th, market better. Florida 6-basket crates range 
$1.50 to $1.90. Only Florida stock arriving about this 
time. On the 1st of May market report reads: 

Tomatoes — Market strong and prices tending upward. 
Quote Florida 6-basket crates fancy at $2.75 to $3.00 and 
choice at $2.25 to $2.50, with even more asked by some 
holders. Sales: part car at $2.25 and $2.75 del, 1 car (yes 
p. m.,) at $2.50 and $3.00 del. 

From the 10th to 15th of May, Florida crates $2.50 to 
$3.00, and inferior and culls, too green, damaged, over- 
ripe, etc., $1.25 to $1.50. Louisiana stock $1.50 for flats or 
4-basket crates. On the 25th we find nothing from Florida. 
The report reads : 

Tomatoes — Market firm, with a good demand for choice 
smooth sound ripe. Quote express receipt Texas and Mis- 
sissippi 4-basket crates ripe at $2. 00 @ 2.25; Alabama 4- 
basket crates at $1.50 to $2.00. 

From the 10th to 15th of June. 

Tomatoes — Texas refrigerated fancy sold in jobbing way 
delivered at $1.10 @ 1.15 per 4-basket crate — car from Rock- 
port cleaning up at $1.00 — leakers at 60c to 75c. Express 
receipts Mississippi at 75c to $1.00 per 4-basket crate; Ala- 
bama trophy at 50 @ 60c and acme at 75® 90c (few fancy at 
$1.10) per 4-basket crate. 

From the 15th to the 20th prices are only about 10 to 
15 cents lower. 



116 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

Here is the report for 20th of June: 

Tomatoes — Fancy sound smooth ripe refrigerated acme 
moving freely at steady prices — several cars unloaded this 
morning; half-ripes, overripe, etc., dull. Texas refrigerated 
fancy sold mainly in jobbing way delivered at $1.00 per 4- 
basket crate — 4 cars sold at that and 1 car at 90c@$1.00 
del. Freight receipts Alabama trophy at 50c to 60c and 
acme at 75c per 4-basket crate. 

On the 26th of June the market is lower and the report 
reads: 

Tomatoes — Market steady and fancy smooth ripe refrig- 
erated acme in fair demand; half-ripes, overripe, leakers, 
etc., dull. Texas refrigerated fancy sold in jobbing way 
delivered at 75c to 80c per 4-basket crate — leakers less; 4 
cars sold at 80c, 1 car and part car at 75® 80c and 1 wreck- 
ed car at 15c to 40c — all del. Express receipts Tennessee 
dull at 50c to 60c per 4-basket crate; Alabama trophy at 
50c and acme at 75c per 4-basket crate. 

By the 1st of July prices are unchanged, but you will 
see in the report of that date that home-grown have ap- 
peared and it is therefore time for all shippers to discon- 
tinue : 

Tomatoes — Active movement at steady prices; receipts 
large and demand good for fancy refrigerated; soft, over- 
ripe, leakers, etc., dull. Texas refrigerated fancy sold in 
jobbing way delivered at 70c to 80c per 4-basket crate — 
leakers less; about 5 cars sold at 80c and 1 car at 70 @ 80c— 
all del. Express receipts Tennessee and Alabama at 30c to 
50c per 4-basket crate — leakers less. Home-grown sold at 
$1.75@2.00 per bu. loose. 

The first week in July prices are about 10c crate lower. 
Therefore, after the first week in July you are not inter- 
ested in the market. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 117 

The importance of proper handling, packing, etc., is 
not properly estimated, and cannot be considered too se- 
riously. If ripe tomatoes are going to be gathered, be 
sure you put them in a separate box; but ripe stock should 
not be sent forward unless you are only a few hours' ride 
from market. Even then they are liable to arrive in bad 
order through rough handling. 

Generally speaking, the proper time to gather and pack 
is when the tomato is full grown and beginning to color or 
partly colored, depending upon the time in transit. The 
warm weather prevailing at the time will ripen them fast 
enough. You should not lose sight of the fact that a good 
many are wanted for reshipment and to be fit for this 
trade, the best we have, must not be fully ripe when they 
reach us. 

When shipped by freight they must be gathered still 
sooner, when full grown, before coloring sets in. Freight 
is not desirable unless you have some assurance in regard 
to time, something you never get. In fact, less than car 
lots are most uncertain and may be out three days or. five 
days. Central Alabama or central Mississippi is as far off 
from this market as local freight shipments should be 
attempted. 

We have for instance local freight shipments, usually 10 to 
30 boxes grape fruit from Florida in winter, that arrive in 
good order, that reach us usually in from 10 tol5 days. They 
are wrapped in double paper which affords protection 
against freezing. 

The six-basket crates or carriers (three peck capacity) 
are decidedly the package, and next to that is the four- 
basket flat crate, not quite half bushel. The four basket flat 
crate used so freely by Texas, Arkansas, West Tennessee 
and Mississippi, is well adapted to their wants and material- 



118 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

ly helps the sale of the goods. The package has much to do 
with the sale as well as the carrying of the fruit, much 
more than the average shipper is aware of. The successful 
grower uses the best package. He can't succeed without 
them. 

No knotty, stunted, over-ripe or otherwise imperfect stock 
should be put in the package under any circumstances. 
Mississippi, Arkansas, Texas, Alabama and West Tennes- 
see packing is usually very fine, and Arkansas is rapidly 
falling in line and getting to use the four-basket crate. 
There is a very wide demand for the tomato, all classes 
being purchasers as soon as the prices become reasonable. 
The demand for it is steadily on the increase. 

A great deal of money has been made off the tomato, 
not only in the South, but also is'orth and East. ,The South 
is destined, however, to remain the most profitable region 
to cultivate them for commercial purposes. The improved 
facilities and lower rates for reaching Northern or distant 
markets, continue to afford a substantial encouragement. 
An acre of ground can be made to yield handsomely in 
efficient hands; from 100 to 250 bushels, according to cir- 
cumstances, location, etc. Two hundred is, perhaps, the 
extreme limit in the South, and 300 in the North. 

As to varieties, will say that the "Acme" and its class 
should head the list for this market, and for most other 
markets, too, as it is a universal favorite. Livingston's 
"Beauty" and "Perfection" and "Stone" close to it, and any 
smooth, round, medium-sized variety might be added. Dark 
red color is favored most by buyers. All varieties not per- 
fectly smooth surfaced should be discarded — such as the 
Trophy and Maul's Early and their class. 

Don't forget that last year's prices were above the av- 
erage, owing to the drouth and prolonged heat which partly 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 119 

destroyed crops here and elsewhere in the Central West. 
The Southern shippers, however, were not so seriously 
affected. 

In regard to packing it must be admitted that the Florida 
people are rapidly forging to the front as expert packers. 
In fact, their pack is close to perfection. We have today, 
for instance, March 22nd, car 6-basket crates from Miami, 
Pla., a great packing and shipping center. There are two 
grades, fancy and choice, the latter grade having just 30 
tomatoes in each basket, 180 to the crate. The fancy has 
24 tomatoes in each basket, 144 to the crate, and their 
condition from ripe to half ripe — not over one-fourth just 
barely ripe. This affords the dealer a chance to hold a few 
days, which he could not do if all ripe, showing pack, and 
grading just about right. 

TEXAS BERMUDA ONIONS. 

Southern Texas has been making more money out of this 
crop the past several years than any other crop raised 
within her borders, considering the amount of capital in- 
vested or needed. The State has made wonderful strides in 
the cultivation of the piquant and pungent onion the past 
seven years. The marked advantage in onion raising is its 
comparative freedom from the perils of unfavorable weath- 
er conditions, to which many other crops have succumbed. 

Such an impression has the Texas Onion made in the 
markets of the country that all the prevailing rules and 
marketing methods heretofore existing in the Central and 
Eastern States have already undergone a wonderful and 
radical change. 

Even Texas must soon yield some of her profits to 
the owners of thousands of acres, just across the 
border, which it seems are well adapted to onion 



120 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

culture, with the big additional advantages of be- 
ing earlier. In fact, the first 15 or 20 cars going out 
will be Mexican stock — as was the case last season. 
Whether these Mexican onion fields will continue to in- 
crease in the vicinity of Laredo or elsewhere in the Repub- 
lic remains to be seen. There is a duty on foreign onions 
of 40 cents per bushel, or crates, 57 lbs. 

The acreage of Onions at Laredo is variously estimated 
by the principal growers there at 4,800 to 5,400 acres. It 
may be safely estimated at about 5,000 acres. There are 
many other shipping points in Southern Texas where the 
Bermuda Onion is the principal crop, embracing the follow- 
ing towns, but the list is far from complete: 

Laredo 5,000 acres 

Big Wells 650 acres 

Cotulla 400 acres 

Islitas 350 acres 

Eagle Pass 300 acres 

Mission 225 acres 

Darwin 220 acres 

Poteet 200 acres 

Pearsall 180 acres 

La Pryor 125 acres 

Floresville 100 acres 

Luling 50 acres 

Victoria 40 acres 

Austin * 30 acres^ 

Ojuelos 28 acres 

Falfurrias 25 acres 

Riveria 25 acres 

Millet 20 acres 

Dilley 15 acres 

McAllen .......... r ,, . 15 acres 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 121 

The magnitude of the Bermuda onion crop just maturing 
can be seen through the array of figures furnished the 
Kansas City Packer in its issue of March the 16th, all 
coming from the leading growers themselves at the va- 
rious shipping points who certainly were not interested in 
getting beyond the most conservative estimate as to the 
acreage or number of cars. 

The Laredo district seems to be the ideal section for 
successful onion culture. It's the earliest going out and 
will strike all the big markets under the most favorable 
conditions, and almost bare of old stock as well as new. 
The first 100 cars of her crop will likely break all records 
in the way of net proceeds. 

At this writing, April 12th, new onions from Laredo are 
here and selling at $3.15 per crate, 57 lbs. gross, the high- 
est price ever paid here for such stock, while the old stock 
brought $2.85 bushel, both record prices. 

The Texas crop of onions last year was 2,800 car loads. 
The crop this year has been carefully estimated by the 
most competent authorities, and it is placed at 1,000 cars 
above last year's output, or 3,800 cars as the total crop for 
1912. At this time (April 4th) it is presumed no disaster 
or serious injury to the crop is looked for — or is likely to 
arise. 

IRISH POTATOES. 

The first receipts usually are anywhere from the 
1st of January to the 1st of February. The first 
receipts here last year did not arrive until the 
6th of March, seven barrels from Bermuda, which 
sold at $7.50 barrel. On the 7th small shipment 
Florida bushel hampers, Triumphs, sold $3.00 hamper. 
March 10th car Florida hampers arrived and moved freely 



122 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

at $2.75. On the 14th we find market weak at $2.25 to $2.40 
hamper. On the 20th jobbing at $2.25. April 1st $2.25 to 
$2.50. April 10th, unchanged, all Florida stock. On the 
20th car Texas Triumphs in cummer crates sold at $2.00 
Florida $2.00 to $2.25 hamper and Louisiana Triumphs $6.00 
barrel. Here is the market report May 1st: 

New Potatoes — Firmer; light offerings and demand fair. 
Quote New Orleans Triumphs at $6 @ 6.25 per brl, $2.15® 
2.25 per bu. in sks. and $1.60 to $2.00 per crate: Mobile 
hampers Triumphs $1.75. Sales: 35 brls. Triumphs at $6<^ 
6.25 per brl del., part car Louisiana Triumphs del — sacks 
at $2.15@2.25 per bu and bxs at $1.60@1.65 for No. 2 and 
$1.85@2.00 for No. 1. 

Receipts steadily increased daily until the 12th of May 
when the report reads: 

New Potatoes — Market barely steady on choice Triumphs, 
with ample offerings and only a quiet demand; white hard 
to sell. Quote sacked Louisiana and Texas Triumphs at 
$1.05@1.10 per bu. del; Louisiana sacked white at 75c per 
bu del; Alabama Triumphs and Louisiana white in hampers, 
dull at 75c per hamper. Sales: 1 car and 2 loads skd. 
Triumphs at $1.10 del., 50 sks. do at $1.05 del., 171 sks. 
white at 75c per bu. del. 

Just ten years ago, May 10th to 20th, figures were just 
about the same as the above. 

Strangely enough the first week in June when the new 
home crop begins to appear and prices much lower in conse- 
quence, we find # receipts lighter and prices higher, due to 
the protrcated heat and drouth in this and all adjoining 
states. June 1st the report reads: 

New Potatoes — In lighter offerings and higher on fancy 
sound skd Triumphs, with a right good demand; small- 
sized, poor and off stock dull and cheap. Quote choice to 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 123 

fancy sacked Triumphs at $1.10 @ 1.15 per bul. del.; spotted 
sacks, inferior and small less. Sales: load small-sized skd. 
Texas cobblers at 75c del., 1 car fancy Texas Triumphs at 
$1.12 trk., 1 car do at $1.15 del. 

Market steadily moved up until the 15th of June, when 
we find the following startling figures at a time when the 
home crop usually makes its appearance on the market, 
but the heat and drouth now so injurious and widespread, 
explains the whole story. 

July 1st the report reads: 

New Potatoes — In smaller receipts and stronger, with 
sales loose farmers' wagons at range of $1.25 @1. 50 per bu. 
mainly at $1.40@1.50. Eastern cobblers jobbing at $4.85 
to $5.00 per brl. del. 

On July 15th the following report shows about double 
the customary prices about this time: 

Potatoes — Receipts 1 car on C. L., 1 on L. & N. Higher 
on home-grown Early Ohio, sales loose from farmers' wag- 
ons ranging from $1.00 to $1.40 per bu.; receipts much 
smaller and highest prices paid late in day. The usual 
course of the market is steadily downward from May 15th 
to July 15th. 

The market is now over to Southern shippers, and they 
are no longer interested here. 

One of the greatest mistakes made by early shippers 
is that of putting in with the better ones the very small 
ones. Half a bushel, or even a peck of these little, worth- 
less things, spoile the sale of the whole barrel, sack or 
package, and shippers have no idea the injury they inflict 
upon themselves and on the market by gathering and 
shipping such objectionable stuff. The retailer can't sell 
them and somebody must eventually throw them away. 

The greatest care must be exercised in the gathering, 



124 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

handling, packing, etc. — must, in fact, be handled like ber- 
ries — to avoid the many bruises that very soon afterwards 
become visible through becoming red, dark and discolored, 
thus largely depreciating their market value, those not 
fully matured always shrinking up badly. At this early 
stage quality and not quantity must be considered; and so 
it is with all this early, perishable stuff. The buyers of 
high-priced stuff want only good; the inferior they won't 
take at any price. A few Arkansas growers have found the 
Bliss White Triumph very profitable. 

In shipping by car-load be sure to secure a well-ven- 
tilated or cattle cars — sacked — sacks on their ends — not 
flat, and the sacks in two rows on each side of car, and an 
open passage through the middle of car. Occasionally cara 
come into the depot leaking — the contents nearly worth- 
less. The weather was exceedingly warm, close and damp 
at such times and the cars were almost air-tight and pos- 
sibly the potatoes were sunburnt before they were sacked, 
and the result was a serious loss to shippers. 

Half-bushel boxes and bushel hampers usually bring 
earliest receipts, but when the prices are down to $1.50 per 
bushel, hampers, 3-bushel barrels or sacks should be used; 
sacks, 90 lbs., Wz bushels. Florida begins with bushel 
hampers. 

For early shipments the packages must be thoroughly 
ventilated, whether boxes or barrels are used and should 
be well filled so as to prevent shaking while in transit. The 
unripe or those not fully matured, are easily bruised and 
soon become so discolored as to spoil the sale of all. A 
number of growers ship a little too soon and lose money 
by doing so. 

It is very important that potatoes should be barreled or 
sacked as soon as possible after they are dug, as lying in 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 125 

the sun heats them, imparts a bad taste, renders them 
unfit to eat afterward, and causes them to rot very quickly. 
Avoid digging immediately after a heavy rain. All pota- 
toes should be barreled or sacked when as dry and cool as 
it is possible to have them. Assort very carefully and 
ship nothing but the largest, having them as uniform in 
size as possible, as culls or small ones, but add to the 
weight and damage the sale, so that they bring no re- 
turns and depreciate the value of the full-size one with 
which they are mixed. If you should ship small ones marir 
the package No. 2. 

Early Rose, Early Ohio, Snow Flake, Burbank and Rurals 
are standard varieties here, as they are at most other 
points. Michigan Rurals, also Wisconsin and Minnesota 
Rurals, supply all the middle west from November till spring 
planting is over, and Triumphs from the Southern States 
soon supply the market. We regard the Early Ohio as 
most valuable because of its great earliness, and place it 
first, where it will succeed. It is the big crop here with 
all home growers. It's their only hope, as they cannot 
compete with the north in growing later varieties. The 
Triumph has become quite a favorite in all the Southern 
States, where it has proved profitable. 

SWEET POTATOES. 

We can offer but little encouragement as a rule to South- 
ern shippers of sweet potatoes. The crop here is usually 
very large, and rarely a failure or partial failure, and now 
the local crop supplies the trade for nearly ten months in 
the year. This leaves but a small gap for early Southern 
shipments. A good part of the crop is carried through the 
winter very successfully through dry or warm storage, and 



126 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

withdrawn as occasion may require, either for local or out- 
side demand. This winter just past disclosed the smallest 
supply and highest price perhaps in 20 years. Last sum- 
mer, with its four months of continuous heat and drouth 
brought about not only a very small crop but a very late 
one, hence much higher prices than usual. The large size 
and somewhat coarse texture, coupled with a slight lack 
of flavor, as compared with the home-grown, forms some 
additional objection. The Nansemonds and Jersey Yel- 
lows of local growth, are small to medium in size, clear, 
bright, smooth and solid, with splendid keeping qualities, 
and sell perhaps 10 to 20 per cent higher at all timse. There 
is, however, a disposition to experiment with the Jersey 
Yellow in several Southern states, in the near future. We 
have had many letters on this subject from many Southern 
shippers who are going to experiment with the Jersey 
Yellow. 

The local crop is composed of the red and yellow Nanse- 
monds and some Jersey Yellows — very similar in appearance 
to the Yellow Nansemonds. The Southern Queen and Red 
Bermuda has a limited following. From the 15th of April 
to the 15th of June usually afford the best opening to the 
more Southern shippers. The prices were so high the 
past season for reasons given, that they would prove mis- 
leading. They are especially low here in October and 
November, excellent stock being offered usually at 35 to 45c 
cents a bushel, figures which exclude all outside shippers. 
The first receipts are liable to come from any Southern 
state except Florida, which could not afford to grow them 
for outside markets at any time on account of heavy freight 
charges. 

Would suggest writing for prices and prospects a few 
days before you are ready for market — to other markets as 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 127 

well as this. This book furnishes thhe names of first-class 
firms in all the leading markets who can be relied on. 

The first receipts, small lots, usually appear in boxes, 
one-half or bushel, or bushel hampers, and later in barrels. 
Sacks afford the poorest protection, as the stock in them 
often show up on arrival somewhat bruised or discolored. 

Barrels and other packages should be well ventilated. 

CAULIFLOWER. 

It is quite strange, but true, that this very desirable 
vegetable does not receive such attention as it is entitled 
to at the hands of Southern growers. Mobile parties 
shipped us very successfully years ago, usually a month 
or so each season, getting fair prices. Florida for several 
years past has been shipping with good results. We think 
its general neglect arises from a lack of experience essen- 
tial to its successful cultivation. The market here is sel- 
dom crowded with nice, fresh stock until the home-grown 
supply or season has fully set in, when the offerings be- 
come the largest of the year. 

California has been shipping it to this and other mar- 
kets by the car load quite regularly for years, seeking the 
various markets of the country that affords the best open- 
ing. California's enormous freight charges to the princi- 
pal markets, $300.00 to $350.00 car, compels her to seek 
those markets almost bare of competition. Southern Texas 
is, however, experimenting and will probably soon show 
some good results. In fact, she has done so already. 

It is regarded a valuable and profitable crop in the East, 
and could be made so, we think, in the South. Long Island, 
N. Y., ships to the principal markets of the country by the 
car load, largely during November and December. The 



128 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

Southern growth should be coming here in March and 
April. We judge the principal reason that cauliflower is 
not more generally cultivated in the South is owing to 
the scarcity of suitable locations. Its natural and most 
congenial home is by the sea shore, the moisture insepara- 
ble from such a locality having a beneficial influence. It 
has been, in fact, asserted by eminent authority, that it 
can't be grown, except under such favorable conditions 
or influences, notably, salt water. This statement, how- 
ever, will not stand in the face of the fact that St. Louis 
County produces magnificent crops of the finest cauliflower 
every year, and we are nearly a thousand miles from the 
coast or salt water, and hence we say that the profits the 
business in the South can be made to yield are not fully 
known outside of Florida. 

The first receipts on the 2nd of January, 1911, were from 
southern Texas, a few barrels by express, selling at $10.00 
barrel, 5 dozen California stock started about the same 
time selling at $3.00 crate (2 dozen). On the 10th a car 
of California arrived and sold at $2.40 to $2.50 crate. No 
Texas for the few days preceding. First of February 
Florida hampers 1% bu. capacity, selling $1.75 and Cali- 
fornia at $1.75 to $2.25 crate as to condition. From the 15th 
of February to the 1st of March only California offerings 
and market steady at $2.00 to $2.25 crate. By the 25th of 
March it's scarce and high, California $3.00 to $3.50 crate 
and home-grown (green house), $2.00 to $3.00 bushel box. 

On the 1st of April only home-grown (green house) of- 
fered $2.50 to $3.50 bu. box. On the 12th home-grown only 
offerings, $1.75 to $2.75 box. May 1st, $1.50 to $2.00, as 
to size of heads. May 15th offerings, home-grown exces- 
sive, selling at 75c to $1.00 box. June 1st very dull and 
cheap, 20c to 50c box. Soon it is entirely neglected, sun- 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 129 

burnt and discolored, though the prolonged heat and drouth 
of last summer, so it soon disappears for many months. 

Colorado begins about August 25th, her crates (2 dozen) 
selling at $2.00 to $3.00, receipts being small and continue 
for a few weeks. Western New York, especially the Buf- 
falo district, commences the first week in September with 
mixed refrigerator cars holding cauliflower, lettuce and cu- 
cumbers, the cauliflower selling at $1.25 to $1.50 crate. The 
following month, October, Michigan makes a limited show- 
ing of cauliflower, cucumbers, etc., but this closes the caul- 
iflower year. 

CELERY. 

The traffic in celery has grown to wonderful proportions. 
Each season during the past 15 or 20 years developed a 
largely increased demand and also adequate supplies to 
meet the growing consumption. There was an abundance 
of it and to give it additional prestige and claims on the 
public, the quality steadily improved, and soon it became 
accessible to all and the cost no longer kept the public from 
it The small lots by express grew in a brief period to car 
lots from Michigan, Colorado, Florida and California. 

Michigan begins her season about the 1st of July and 
remains a free shipper to all the leading markets east of 
the Rockies until midwinter, when her supplies are ex- 
hausted. In January Michigan winds up her season's oper- 
ations, sometimes a little earlier, as hard freezing begins 
there early in December and it's hard to handle after that 
time. Yet she stores some occasionally for some of her 
customers. Receipts of home-grown are light until about 
the first of December. During December and January the 
local season, which is brief, is at its height. California 
crowds the market just as soon as she gets a chance, and 
during January, February and March the supplies from 



130 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

the Golden Satate are usually heavy. Florida has also been 
coming to the front the past eight or nine years, shipping 
here and elsewhere by the car load in March and April. 
The Florida stock looks very white, nicely bleached and 
attractive, yet not as crisp and tender as it might be, but 
being without competition during a good portion of her 
shipping season, gets good prices. Florida has what is 
known as 10-inch crates and 12-inch crates, holding four to 
six dozen celery stalks, as to size of same. There should 
be only one size crate. The crates are considerably smaller 
than the California, Colorado or Michigan bulk crates. The 
Florida crates should be. the same size to avoid misunder- 
standing between buyers and sellers. 

California is steadily growing as a formidable competi- 
tor in all Western markets, and shipping too when most 
others have retired. California ships in straight car lots 
during the winter and spring months. There is only a gap 
now of two months, May and June, between the old and 
new crop. 

The area and range of territory adapted to celery cul- 
ture, is rapidly widening and revolutionizing the business. 
Occasionally our first receipts come from Wellington, Ohio, 
a famous section for onion and celery culture, but the 
weather is so hot either in June or July that the demand 
is always limited as it wilts and withers all too soon await- 
ing dealers or consumers. 

The local crop of celery is not as large as formerly, when 
there was less outside competition, so that the acreage here 
is shrinking instead of increasing. It comes in late, how- 
ever, avoiding the heaviest competition, that of Michigan 
especially. Hence the local crop appears late in Decem- 
ber and during January and part of February when the 
receipts from outsiders are rather limited. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 131 

Prices of celery during 1911 were so very high because of 
light crops everywhere east of the Rockies, that the figures 
given were so much higher than usual, practically 25 to 50 
per cent above the average season, they had better be 
eliminated. Michigan, for instance, sold carloads here in 
November at nearly double the price she received just a 
year before. Strangely enough, celery has shown during 
the three weeks from the middle of March to the 7th of 
April, 1912, the widest range of prices ever known here in a 
similar period. On the 15th of March best California celery 
sold at $7.50 crate. After that it steadily declined until 
$2.50 crate ruled for the best grade. Florida showed up in 
the meantime, causing the big drop. 

LETTUCE. 

Has been coming regularly and freely for years from the 
South — Florida, Louisiana and Southern Texas leading, es- 
pecially during January, February and March. Briefly, it 
may be said that there is no beginning or ending of the let- 
tuce season. It can be had every week in the year, the old 
crop of one section of the country side by side with the 
new crop of another part of the country — hard to say where 
one began and the other left off. 

Florida begins in a small way by express early in Novem- 
ber, later in the mouth in solid carloads, refrigerators. The 
latter part of November finds even Michigan is represented 
by small shipments occasionally in November. Lettuce is 
quoted 25th of November, Louisiana sugar barrels well iced, 
$3.00 to $5.00. Home-grown, 45c to 85c bushel loose. All re- 
ceipts rather leafy. December 1st Florida hampers iy 2 - 
bu. capacity $2.50 to $3.00 New Orleans sugar barrels $5.00 
to $6.50. December 10th all offerings much lower except a 
refrigerator of Florida stock which sold at $2.00 to $2.50 



132 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

per hamper. For the first week in January here is about 
the average daily report: 

Lettuce — Fancy head lettuce firm and in good demand; 
loose, leafy, small heads, etc., dull. Quote fancy Florida 
(received in refrigerator car) at $3.25 to $3.50 per crate; 
and express receipts at $1.50 per hamper for wrecked to 
$3.00 for fancy in sound well-filled packages. Quote New 
Orleans sugar brls. at from $2.50@3.00 for No. 2, to $5.00® 
6.00 for fancy according to packing. Lower Coast small 
barrels sold at $5.00 to $6.00. Chicago leaf lettuce at 30(g) 
35c per box (pecks). 

On the 25th of January the market report reads as fol- 
lows: 

Lettuce — Easy and quiet. Quote refrigerator Florida 
hampers at $2.25 @ 2.50 del and express receipts (more or less 
damaged and packages broken down) at $1.00 to $2.00 per 
hamper. New Orleans sugar brls. $3.00 to $4.00. Lower 
Coast small brls. at from freight charges for small heads 
and inferior to $3.00 for best offerings — stock mainly infe- 
rior. Chicago leaf lettuce 32% per box (peck). 

On February 25th here is the market: 

Lettuce — Choice Florida head lettuce firm, but poor 
stock (heated, frozen, etc.) neglected; New Orleans and 
Lower Coast dull, too. Quote Florida refrigerated hampers 
in jobbing way del. at $1.00 to $1.35 (some heated selling at 
50c to 70c) and fancy in crates at $1.50@1.60; express re- 
ceipts at 75c to $1.00 per hamper. New Orleans and Kenner 
sugar brls. and Lower Coast small brls. dull at $1.50 to $2.00. 
Home-grown (hot-bed) 40c per box, loose. 

March 25th reads: 

Lettuce — Quiet; fancy head lettuce steady, poor stock 
hard to sell. Quote choice to fancy Florida hampers in job- 
bing way at $1.50 to $2.25 del— poor dull at $1.00@1.25 del. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 133 

Lower Coast small brls. at $2.50 to $3.00. New Orleans su- 
gar brls. at $2.75 to $3.25. Home-grown leaf lettuce 40 @ 
50c per box. 

On the 15th of April reads: 

Lettuce — Southern weak and dull, on account of poor 
quality and condition of offerings; Home-grown plentiful, 
too. Quote Texas sugar brls. at $4.00 to $5.00; Louisiana 
short hampers (Pontchatoula) at $1.25 @ 1.50; New Orleans 
sugar brls. at $1.50 to $3.00; Lower Coast small brls. in 
bad order sold for charges. Home-grown leaf lettuce at 
50c to 65c per box. 

By May the 15th only home-grown offered, all shippers 
being forced to withdraw and the Southern shippers are no 
longer interested. In July and August mixed cars, refriger- 
ators, embracing considerable lettuce, comes from Buffalo 
and other western New York points — also from Chicago. 

DAMAGE AND LOSS TO SHIPPERS. 

It will be noticed that in all these reports covering lettuce 
and also often covering beans, peas, cucumbers, peppers, 
potatoes and similar goods received by express daily during 
the shipping season, the packages are usually referred to as 
"more or less damaged and packages broken down." Let- 
tuce, it will be observed, is quoted $1.00 to $2.00 hamper — 
the difference generally averaging 50c hamper in favor of 
the packages not smashed at the transfer points before get- 
ting out of Florida. There is no telling how many thousand 
dollars are lost annually in this way to the shippers. 

The owners and shippers of these crops have for years 
submitted to these wrongs and losses because they could 
not afford to prosecute the Express Company for each of 
these offenses, a fact the Express Company knows very 
well. 



134 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

We have occasionally presented claims on behalf of the 
shippers, but generally found it a waste of time unless you 
take the matter into court — an expense rarely justified. 

It should be stated that the Express Company knows we 
are not interested financially in these claims or adjust- 
ments, hence the shippers claims and demands will be more 
readily recognized, as it is to them they are indebted for 
the business. The damage to goods through delays en 
route are frequently serious, and at least a portion of them 
should be paid by the express companies. The shipping 
associations sliould take up these matters. 

The Louisiana people thoroughly understand the art of 
packing early vegetables for Northern markets. As can 
readily be imagined, most fresh egetables would heat quick- 
ly — long before their destinations were reached, in such 
large packages as sugar barrels, and hence ice is used at 
all times during the shipping season and cannot be dis- 
pensed with. This is especially true of LETTUCE, RAD- 
ISHES, SPINACH, PARSLEY, MUSTARD GREENS, 
KALE, CARROTS, BEETS, TURNIPS, SPRING ONIONS, 
KOHLRABI, etc. The home grown crop keeps coming 
throughout the winter when mild weather prevails, and ap- 
pears side by side with the consignments from the South, 
and being so very fresh, so much more inviting, sells higher 
than most of the shipments. Good sized heads are what is 
needed — stale-looking, discolored, leafy and heads running 
to seed should not be shipped, nor should any stunted or im- 
perfect head be packed, and if dirty or sandy should be 
cleaned before shipped. 

BEETS. 

Beets paid fairly well here the past 10 years. In the 
early part of the season the receipts are mainly from New 



FOB NOBTHEBN MAtiKETS. 135 

Orleans and vicinity. The first week in January New 
Orleans offerings are 25 to 35c a dozen' bunches, and $3.00 
to $3.50 per sugar barrel iced. The market is still full of 
old beets which are selling at 30c to 40c a bushel loose. 
On February 1st old stock still lower, 25c a bushel loose, 
and New Orleans 20c to 35c dozen bunches, according to 
sizeof same. On the 1st of March the market is practi- 
cally unchanged. April 1st old stock still at 25c a bushel, 
loose, and New Orleans 20c to 35c per dozen bunches, as 
to size, etc. May 1st local crop old beets 25c to 30c 
bushel, loose, and New Orleans 20c to 30c dozen. You are 
no longer interested because home-grown supply the entire 
trade later. 

This year, from the first of January to date, April 1st, 
1912, the prices were away above last years on both old 
and new stock, so that we have the two extremes close to- 
gether, so much higher, that they might prove misleading 
if given at length. 

These New Orleans sugar barrels hold 10 to 13 dozen 
and 30c to 40c dozen is the usual price during January, 
February and March. The express company gives low 
rates to encourage shipments, and $2.50 to $4.00 per bar- 
rel, the usual price, seems to afford satisfaction, as the 
beets come along all winter and spring without interrup- 
tion. They stand shipping better than most early vege- 
tables, a point in their favor. They come in fairly good 
order without ice until the hot weather sets in. New Or- 
leans, however, always uses ice, even by express. 

ASPARAGUS. 

Can be grown profitably for Northern markets, but we can- 
not encourage heavy shipments here. Our own gardeners 



136 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

furnish it so extensively and begin so early in the season, 
that there is rarely a profitable opening for outside parties 
at any time of the year, though the various markets repre- 
sented in this book can doubtless offer more encourage- 
ment. Asparagus is a big specialty with many gardeners 
around here and they commence shipping some to other 
markets early in the season. Heavy shipments came here 
from California during last February and March, but it 
was too expensive for general use. The first regular re- 
ceipts from the south appeared on the 6th of February in 
half-bushel boxes neatly partitioned off, allowing a little 
square for each of the 24 bunches in the boxes. It sold for 
several days at $3.00 to $3.50 box. They were shipped from 
Alabama and Southern Texas. By February 20th to 1st of 
March offerings much larger and prices $1.75 to $2.25, com- 
ing from the same sections. April 1st prices are about the 
same. California still shipping. 

May 1st, West Tennessee, Southern Missouri and South- 
ern Illinois are shipping and prices are considerabe lower, 
so that Southern shippers are no longer interested. 

SPRING ONIONS, LEEK, AND SHALLOTS. 

Come in here freely every spring in February, March and 
April, in all sorts of packages, and sell at all sorts of 
prices — someof them down to express charges. If they are 
cleaned off nicely, stripped of the outside brown casing 
which renders them unsightly, the roots trimmed and tied 
in bunches of six to eight stalks, no dead leaves, only th< 
pure white and green color visible, and packed in crates or 
boxes ventilated, they will bring much more than a portion 
of the receipts, which are pulled out of the ground and 
thrown into boxes without any attempt to clean, pack or 
render them attractive to buyers, who are accustomed to 



■ 

n 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 137 

see all such goods here in the most attractive condition at 
the various stands and stores where handled. The large 
stalks do not sell near as well as small ones, which are 
better adapted to the wants of the table. Some cf the 
bunches shipped are so small it takes 50 dozen to fill a 
sugar barrel, including cracked ice, while 30 dozen would 
be about right when well iced. Leave on the tops also. It 
makes the bunches look larger and makes a better im- 
pression on the buyer. During the past month the highest 
prices that were ever paid here prevailed for some time 
owing to the marked scarcity everywhere, and New Or- 
leans, and Kenner, Louisiana, seemed the only source of 
supply. On a few occasions they sold as high as $20 a 
barrel — 60 to 70 cents a dozen, or about four times the 
usual price. Last year showed the other extreme, aver- 
aging during January, February, and March, about 15c per 
dozen bunches. 

New Orleans and vicinity contribute most of the offer- 
ings here until home-grown are plenty. 

RADISHES. 

Suffer more while in transit than perhaps any other vege- 
table and a few crushed leaves will soon start the whole 
lot on their way to destruction or decay. They should not 
be shipped with the soil still clinging to them, the way 
onions sometimes come. Should be washed off clean and 
tied in bunches, yellow leaves removed and dry and cool 
before packed. Don't use barrels, however, for our market, 
unless well iced. Must advise going slow for this market. 
New Orleans ships heavily here throughout the winter in 
sugar barrels well iced and neatly packed. In fact, Louisiana 
ships here steadily for four months, beginning early 
in December and stiippina $%&A\\j thereafter until April, 



138 SO TJTHERN FB UITS AND VE GE TABLES 

when the several states adjoining us, especially Eastern 
Arkansas, gets started. Arkansas ships early in April quite 
freely in barrels, "chipped" to afford some ventilation and 
shipping without ice, being out only nine to 12 hours— long 
enough, however, to have some of them arrive here more 
or less heated. When trains are late, a few hours, as 
sometimes happens, the barrels are dumped out on arrival 
to lee the contents 'cool off. Alabama shipped enormous 
quantities of radishes, the majority white, from the 15th 
of March to the 10th of April, largely in bushel hampers. 
Those in barrels were iced and needed it. 

Louisiana's enormous crop every year is composed of 
the round white tipped variety, which has a big following 
everywhere. The long radish, light red or pink color, has 
also quite a following. They are largely grown in South- 
ern Mississippi, also considerable in Alabama, Tennessee, 
and Arkansas, the latter state the long radish almost ex- 
clusively. 

We often see shipped in here large, soft, over-ripe roots 
that are hollow inside. Such are neglected and won't pay 
to ship here, or probably anywhere. A good many from 
Texas are too large, soft and spongy— overgrown. They 
should be gathered and shipped before they get so large. 

Mississippi ships quite freely here in the four-basket 
crates used for tomatoes— the four baskets removed— and 
this makes a splendid package for them— a flat, well ven- 
tilated package of such capacity meeting all the important 
requirements, especially in the matter of ventilation. 
Three-peck, or so-called 'bushel boxes, are also used by 
many shippers in Mississippi until warm weather sets in, 
say April. 

The radish is growing in popularity and the demand for 
it I 1 ?.? Steadily jncreasefl— more through lowrer prices than 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 139 

perhaps any other cause. It is almost within the reach of 
everybody now throughout the year. 



OKRA OR GUMBO. 

Okra or gumbo can be grown profitably for our market 
in a limited way. Florida shipped here very successfully 
the past ten or 12 years during the winter and spring when 
she practically has all markets relying on her. Texas, 
Alabama and Mississippi are next, soon followed by West 
Tennessee and Arkansas. Florida ships in the regular six 
basket crate, a splendid package for it, and she also grows 
the dwarf variety — small, short pods, about one and one- 
half inches long, which the trade likes so well. 
It usually sells $2.50 to $3.00 per crate, occasionally $3.00 to 
$3.50, until the states north of Florida begin, when it de- 
clines rapidly. The long, big, stringy pods should be 
abandoned for the dwarf sorts. They won't pay in any 
market. The must be gathered before they get big and 
tough — when crisp and tender. 

This winter up to date, March 30th, 1912, gumbo has 
been scarce and high, owing to adverse weather in Florida, 
which furnished about all that came here. 

It sometimes comes in peck and one-third bushel boxes — 
beginning at $1.00 per box and soon declining to 50 cents. 
It is so light, express charges do not amount to much. 
Some West Tennessee parties shipped here quite success- 
fully the past five years. Louisiana, Alabama, Arkansas 
and Southern Texas ships considerable every year. The 
dwarf small pods, 1% to 2y 2 inches, make desirable sizes. 
The four-basket crate or six-basket crates are the best 
packages. The one-third bushel box has become a back 
number for any purpose. Such packages are destitute of 



140 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 
needed ventilation, and conceals instead of revealing the 
contents. 

EGG PLANTS. 

Egg plants are so heavy, the charges, especially by ex- ■ 
press, become a serious matter. They can come here profit- 
ably for a while, at least, especially when shipped by fast 
freight or in mixed refrigerator cars, with melons, canta- 
loupes and other goods coming that way from many points. 
Ship none that are in the least injured or half-grown dam- 
aged or otherwise faulty and only in ventilated barrels or 
boxes. The egg plant season is now a long one here. 
Florida is one of the principal fields of supply early in the 
season. She ships in barrels, and in half-barrel boxes or 
crates, mainly in 1% bushel boxes or crates, the most de- 
sirable package, because a good many dealers would find a 
barrel too much, and during the winter and spring months, 
when she supplies most of the markets, gets generally 

good prices. 

It was unusually scarce this past winter and remains 
scarce and high-priced up to date, March 30th, 1912, far 
higher than usual. 

The first week in January shows Florida offerings at $5.00 
per 1% bushel crate, and some poor Texas stock at $2.50 
per bushel hamper. A few small consignments of Mexican 
stock came early in January, which sold at good prices, 
$3 50 bushel crate-but latter part of January the Mexican 
stock was the only offerings, $2.00 to $2.50 bushel crate. 
Texas and Florida receipts very irregular during January. 
First three weeks in February show only Florida stock, 
which ranged $4.00 to $5.00 crate, the receipts being light 
and irregular. By the 1st of March larger receipts, Florida 
$3 50 and Mexican $1.50 to $2.00. From the 15th of March 






FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. - 141 

to the 1st of April scarce and only Florida egg plants are 
coming; prices mainly $3.00 to $4.00 per \y 2 bushel crates. 
Prom April 5th to 15th Florida plenty and lower, $2.25 to 
$3.25 crate. From the 15th April to the 1st of May receipts 
are liberal and quite steady — prices equally so, $2.50 to 
$3.00 crate, 1% bushels. 

From the 3rd to 12th of May, lighter offerings, $3.00 to 
$3.50. Receipts in excess of the demand from 15th to 20th, 
and prices away down — $1.75 to $2.25, all Florida. 

June 1st only $1.25 to $1.75. June 9th, $1.75 to $2.25 and 
June 12th receipts sold $3.00 to $3.50, 20th, $2.50 to $2.75, 
and Louisiana bushel hampers $1.50 to $2.00. July 3rd, 
Florida, $1.25 to $1.50, and Alabama and Louisiana bushel 
hampers $1.00. However, Southern shippers are no longer 
interested, as home-grown soon take the market. 

Receipts this year up to date, March 30th. Receipts light, 
irregular, very high average, hence quotations no proper 
basis to go on for the coming year. 

SQUASH. 

Squash comes regularly from the South, Florida first, 
later from Southern Texas, New Orleans and Mobile, and 
usually brings paying but not big prices. The past several 
years Florida shipped here in \y 2 bushel boxes heavily, us- 
ually beginning in January. In fact, Florida is likely to 
keep the principal markets supplied during January, Feb- 
ruary and March, or until the States north of her get started 
— unless checked by winter frosts, as she has been the past 
winter. Her first offerings usually bring $2. per bushel box, 
but they soon decline to $1.00 per box. The first receipts 
last season appeared later than usual, February 23rd, in 
iy 2 bushel crates, which Florida uses now for squash, 
quitting the bushel box. Such goods are so heavy to go 



142 SOUTHEBN FEUITS AND VEGETABLES 

by express that the greatest caution must be exercised 
to avoid losses. They usually get here in mixed cars, with 
tomatoes, celery, lettuce or potatoes. During March they 
ranged from $2~.00 to $2.25, which does not show large 
profits, although squash carries about the lowest express 
charges out of Florida, $2.00 to $2.50 per 100 lbs. February 
receipts made a better showing of net proceeds— averag- 
ing probably $2.50 crate, 1% bushel or half-barrel capacity. 

It comes successfully in ventilated boxes or barrels and 
wrapped in coarse brown paper; the usual price, according 
to receipts and circumstances, after the season is well 
started, are from 20 to 40 cents per dozen. Pack none that 
are speckled, bruised, soft or otherwise injured or faulty. 
Nearly all come through successfully by fast freight. 

The round squash and bush scallop, or yellow patty- 
pan are the sorts wanted in this market. The long oi 
crook neck yellow sorts are actually unsalable here, while 
they may do fairly well in Chicago and other markets. 

Mississippi, Southern Illinois and Arkansas shipped sev- 
eral lots of this crook neck squash here the past few years 
that had to be dumped. 



HORSERADISH. 

There is no vegetable probably about whose successful 
cultivation so little is known. It must be admitted, how- 
ever, that few sections are adapted to its culture. The soil 
required is a dark rich loam, which should be thoroughly 
prepared in advance. It grows from root cuttings 3 to 5 
inches long, which are planted in a slanting position 2 to 3 
inches deep at surface and 5 to 6 inches deep at bottom of 
root and 8 to 10 inches apart in the rows, which are gener- 
ally 3 feet apart. At least once or twice during the grow- 
ing season the earth must be sufficiently withdrawn to en- 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 143 

able the cultivator to remove the side roots, allowing the 
main or tap roots to stand, when the earth should be re- 
placed. We know of no place in the South where it has 
been successfully grown. It has been tried around New 
Orleans, where it is supposed the conditions were rather 
favorable, but failed. Marketable roots must be at T east 
6 to 8 inches long and 1 to 2 inches in diameter, and should 
average 1% inches. The usual price is $3 to $5 per barrel 
or 3 to 5 cents per pound. 

PEPPERS. 

Are steadily growing in favor here and sold very high at 
times during the past six or eight winters. The several 
freezes in Florida cut off her customary shipments during 
the winter and spring, especially during January, Febru- 
ary and March, when she is really without competition in 
all the large cities. Receipts were light and irregular 
throughout the winter up to date, March 30, and prices 
were high throughout — mainly $3 to $4 for carriers or 6- 
basket crates. 

The large bell or sweet variety sometimes referred to 
as the "Bull Nose," is preferred. The small, long ones are 
not liked nor any of the hot sorts. The mild to sweet 
sorts are in request by most of the consumers here. Ship 
in the regular six-basket crate as Florida does. They come, 
however, in all sorts of packages, especially bushel hamp- 
ers, crates, etc. We know of no vegetable for which the 
demand so steadily increased during the past 7 or 8 years 
as for peppers. They are so light the express charges do 
not amount to much. 

SPINACH. 

Spinach came here profitably last spring from Arkansas. 



144 SOUTHERN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

Tennessee and Western Kentucky for quite a while and 
this spring (February and March, 1912) there were fre- 
quently paying openings for it. In fact, there is 
a growing demand for it. At this writing, March 
30th, it is free sale at $1.25 per bu. 'hamper, and has been 
the past several weeks, considerable coming from Ala- 
bama in bushel hampers. Norfolk, Va .., frequently ships 
by the car load (barrels) during February and March, also 
kale. Home-grown is gradually increasing. After this 
time car loads of spinach sometimes come here from Bal- 
timore in February and March. Most of the spinach re- 
ceived during January, February and March sold from 
$1.00 to $1.50 per bushel hamper, and came largely from 
Alabama. Texas occasionally struck some big prices for 
it during January, February of this year, 1912. 

TURNIPS. 

There is no crop that is so universal as the turnip — 
none that succeeds so well under adverse circumstances in 
the matter of soil, climate and other important conditions. 
They grow where most other crops fail. It is perhaps the 
only food product or root crop that can be grown in every 
state in the union, and only in the arid lands and most im- 
poverished sections of the country would it fail to grow if 
at all fairly started. It stands more drouth than any other 
root crop. Strangely enough, it is one of the most 
unprofitable crops because so widely cultivated and 
being raised everywhere, and in addition a good keeper, 
there is rarely a profitable market in sight — save in few 
exceptions and only for a short time. 

Protracted drouth in growing sections sometimes causes 
scarcity and high prices, and this is especially true of 1911, 
as 1912 opened with a surprisingly small crop carried over. 



FOB NOB THEBN MABKE TS. 1 45 

Hence prices advanced rapidly during January, February 
and March everywhere — fully double what they usually are. 
All roots crops were about double the usual value during 
the same period because of the widespread drouth last sea- 
son throughout the Central West and South. Hence the 
prices ruling from January 1st to April 1st, 1912, would 
prove misleading if given here. 

The cultivation of the Swedish turnip or Rutabaga is 
largely confined to Minnesota and Canada, the latter stock 
considered best. 

SUGGESTIONS TO SHIPPERS. 

1. When making consignments always write your Com- 
mission Merchant, stating what shipped, number of pack- 
ages, whether by express or local freight, date shipped, 
road shipped by, contents, etc. 

2. If shipment consists of a carload, always wire the 
car number and initials of car and name of road car will 
be delivered over at destination, so consignee can know 
where to look for car and what car to look for, as some 
cities have four or five roads over which a car can arrive. 

3. It is always best to insert on Bill of Lading the name 
of delivering line. 

4. In shipping Draft Bill Lading attached or Order Noti- 
fy, shippers will avoid confusion and in good many cases 
severe losses by inserting on the Bill of Lading the clause 
"Permit inspection without Surrender of Bill of Lading.' , 

5. Shippers will make money by advising their mer- 
chants what the correct rate of freight on their ship- 
ments is, and will greatly assist in preventing over-charges 
by sending Bills of Lading with the RATE INSERTED. 

6. In case shipments are diverted after having been 



' 146 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

made, the house to whom shipment was originally made 
should be always advised promptly. 

LESS IMPORTANT VEGETABLES. 

We have already reviewed at length the kinds of vege- 
tables we recommend as most profitable for this market. 
The remainder we bunch together and suggest planting only 
to a limited extent until you learn from experiment what 
other markets as well as this may do for you. We believe 
each is worthy of a trial, in a limited way. It is certain 
you will not find any of them profitable here if you wait 
till home-grown appears. 

EARLY CORN, CARROTS, PARSLEY, KOHLRABI, PAR- 
SNIPS, MUSTARD GREENS, OYSTER-PLANT OR SAL- 
SIFY, RHUBARB, ETC. 

As already stated, New Orleans ships enormous quan- 
tities of these early vegetables to this market — bunched 
vegetables nicely iced in sugar barrel, so that they reach 
their various destinations throughout the country in 
splendid condition. We would advise opening communica- 
tion with the various other firms represented elsewhere in 
this work. 

Today, March 30th, 1912, we find the following vegetables 
quoted in our daily market reports — all from New Orleans: 
Endive, $1.50 to $2.25 per sugar barrel, iced. Escarol, $2.00 
to $2.50 per sugar barrel, iced. Romaine, $2.00 to $3.00 
per sugar barrel, iced. Kohlrabi, 15c to 30c dozen bunches. 
Parsley, 10c to 12c per dozen bunches. 

While everything else is much higher than usual these 
vegetables, because of the limited demand for them are 
cheap— too low to offer much encouragement to anybody. 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 147 

BIG LOCAL CROPS. 

The great number of gardeners in the vicinity of this 
city now accomplish so much through the aid of hotbeds, 
cold frames and early forcing, that quite a list of vegetables 
can be had here at the stores and stands throughout the 
year. The changes, improvements and progress developed 
in this industry here within the past fifteen years are simp- 
ly surprising and surpass those near any other large city 
in the West. The figures ruling for these less prominent 
vegetables during the past three months, January, Febru- 
ary and March, 1912, have been so high that it would be 
a mistake to quote them — being so much higher than usual. 

THE EVER CHANGING AND SHIFTING CONDITIONS. 

To vegetable shippers generally we will say that other 
agencies besides overproduction figure in the decline in 
prices. Lower freight rates and quicker time in transit are 
often prime factors in the changein values. For instance, 
shippers who formerly sent small lots, now ship by car load 
or get others to join them in making up a car. Thus not 
only are much lower freight rates secured but also quicker 
time in transit, all of which operates against the isolated 
and small shippers, who cannot secure either the low rates 
or shorter time en route accessible tothe car lot shippers. 
These remarks apply with equal force to fruit shippers. 

It may be added here that the fancy prices formerly paid 
for certain articles will practically never be known again. 
Thirty-five to 40 years ago the first receipts of strawberries 
brought $2.00 quart. Five years later $1.50 quart were the 
best figures, while the past ten years 75c to $1.00 have 
been the outside prices for the first receipts from Florida, 
a few days before Christmas. Our berry season 35 to 40 
years ago lasted less than three months, while now seven 



148 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

months of the year may be regarded the strawberry season. 
The season for everything is so lengthened that no product 
becomes a novelty at any season of the year. Thus prices 
are leveled by the great variety as well as the big offerings 
of everything which can now be produced steadily through- 
out the year through our matchless resources of soil and 
climate. 



GIVE THEM A CHANCE. 

Very often shippers receive returns that do not satisfy 
them* — or are disappointed over results. At times they re- 
gard the charges excessive and accuse the merchant of 
overcharging. Again shortages arise — or part of the con- 
signment is damaged through accident, delay or otherwise, 
and the receiver in his hurry overlooks making explanation 
with sale, or the circumstances that led to lower prices for 
same. 

The shipper should remember that in the busy season — 
which is when himself and his neighbors are shipping— 
the average commission merchant is driven to death. The 
merchant, for instance, may make a note of the necessity 
for explanation to shipper to account for low prices, but 
in the evening when he has a stack of letters before him to 
answer, not to speak of account sales, checks, drafts, etc., 
he finally forgets all about it, in his anxiety to get ready 
for the out-going mail. 

In such cases we have occasionally in our travels on 
the road seen a shipper get mad at the commission mer- 
chant and tell his neighbors without reserve that they beat 
him out of so and so. Under such circumstances the ship- 
per should ask for explanation, which can be done on a 
postal card — giving dates and particulars. In many cases 



FOB NOBTHEBX MABKETS, 149 

the reply received will show that there was no just ground 
for any charges of the kind. 

PREPAY YOUR TELEGRAMS. 

It has become a practice among certain shippers to ask 
questions and seek information by wire, and let them go 
collect, and the reply they also expect the commission mer- 
chant to prepay. Thus the merchant is not only expected 
to furnish them important information free of charge, but 
also pay anywhere from fifty cents to one dollar each way 
for the privilege of doing so. In many instances there is 
not a cent in the deal for the commission merchant, and 
the shipper only is benefited and the questions asked are 
in his interest. The idea, for instance, of asking an offer 
on goods and expecting the merchant to pay — both wires — 
well, it's absurd! Why the shippers should expect such 
costly favors free, remains one of the unexplained com- 
mercial conundrums of the times. When these telegrams 
come from Florida and other points in the far south, the 
situation is especially aggravating, the cost of ten words 
being generally 60 to 75 cents. We recall especially one 
case, a young man in Florida asking information, and let 
the charges go collect, and because the answer came 
collect, the seeker of the news got indignant and 
asked for an explanation. In a courteous note he 
was requested to kindly transfer his patronage to some 
other house who could appreciate his fine sense of fairness 
and justice. 

The local agents, too, working on commission, frequent- 
ly develop a weakness of this kind. They want a division 
of the commissions, but forget about a proper division of 
the cost of telegrams which # helps to build up their fees. 
Prepay your telegram and your merchant will prepay his. 



150 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

TABLE SHOWING AMOUNT OF SEED NECESSARY FOR 
AN ACRE AND NUMBER OF POUNDS TO BUSHEL. 

No. lbs. to bu. Quantity to acre 

Clover, Alfalfa 60 20 to 30 lbs. 

" Alsike 60 8 to 10 " 

Red 60 8 to 10 " 

" White 60 6 to 8 " 

" Crimson 60 12 to 15 " 

Grass, Bermuda 2 to 3 " 

" Blue for Lawns 14 30 to 40 •' 

1 lb. for 15x15 feet square. 

" Blue for Pastures ....14 20 to 35 " 

" Mixture for " 14 30 to 40 " 

" Lawn Mixture 14 30 to 40 " 

1 lb. for 15x15 feet square. 

Orchard 14 15 to 25 " 

Red Top 20 15 to 20 " 

Timothy 45 12 to 15 " 

Hungarian 48 28 to 35 " 

Millet, German or Golden 50 25 to 35 " 

Buckwheat 52 l to iy 4 bu. 

Broom Corn 48 4 to 6 qts. 

Kaffir Corn 50 5 to 6 lbs. 

Cane Seed for Fodder 50 20 to 40 " 

" " " Sorghum . 50 4 to 8 " 

Castor Beans 46 4 to 5 " 

Flaxseed 56 l to IK bu 

Field Beans 60 iy, to 2 " 

Field Peas 60 1 to IK" 

Cow or Southern Peas < 60 1 to 1% " 

Garden Beans, Dwarf 60 1 to 1% " 

Onion Sets 32 1 to 15 

Potatoes, Irish 60 8 to 10 " 

Rape, Dwarf Essex 4 to 12 lbs. 

Seed, Barley 48 2 to 2% bu. 

" Corn 56 4 to 6 qts. 

" Oats 32 2to2>£bu. 

" Rye 56 lto i%" 

" Wheat * 60 l^to 2 " 

Sunflower 4 to 6 lbs. 

Vetches 60. 40 to 60 " 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 151 

A TABLE SHOWING THE NUMBER OF TREES OR 
PLANTS TO THE ACRE. 

Distance. No. of trees. 

1 foot apart each way 43,560 

2 feet apart each way 10,890 

3 feet apart each way 4,840 

4 feet apart each way 2,702 

5 feet apart each way , 1,742 

6 feet apart each way. 1,210 

7 feet apart each way 888 

8 feet apart each way 680 

9 feet apart each way 537 

10 feet apart each way 434 

11 feet apart each way 360 

12 feet apart each way 302 

13 feet apart each way 257 

14 feet apart each way 222 

15 feet apart each way 193 

16 feet apart each way 170 

17 feet apart each way 150 

18 feet apart each way 134 

19 feet apart each way 120 

20 feet apart each way 108 

25 feet apart each way 69 

30 feet apart each way 48 

Rule — Multiply the distance in feet between the rows by 
the distance the plants are apart in the rows, and the prod- 
uct will be the number of square feet for each plant or hill, 
which, divided into the number of feet in an acre (43,560), 
will give the number of plants or trees to the acre. 

Distances for planting various fruits will be given under 
respective headings in thin catalogue. 



152 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 
THE COMMISSION HOUSES, 

Representing the leading markets shippers are anxious to 
reach, are selected with the greatest possible care. They are 
old, reliable and experienced merchants, who have made 
fruits, vegetables, etc., a specialty for years. They are, in 
the main, our correspondents, personal friends, with whom 
we do business in their respective markets, and shippers 
will be at once saved the trouble of seeking the standing 
or names of reliable and responsible firms in all these 
markets. 

It is, in fact, such a list as only a man in the trade or 
business is capable of selecting. 

Their names could not appear in this volume at any 
price unless we knew them to be entirely reliable and trust- 
worthy. We have admitted such markets and such callings 
as we know our readers are interested in. 

You should correspond with each, telling them what t 
you will have to ship. They will then be in a position to 
keep you advised as the season advances and you should in 
return favor them with your shipments when you conclude 
to patronize their markets. 

The other business cards, respecting SEEDS, FRUIT 
AND VEGETABLE BOXES, CRATES, WEEKLY PAPERS, 
etc., are such as are of immediate interest to you and will 
be found equally reliable and worthy of your patronage. 

The SEED HOUSE and BOX FACTORY can furnish you 
an illustrated catalogue containing a fund of valuable in- 
formation. 

CONSIGNING VS. SELLING F. O. B. 

We receive a great many letters every year from ship- 
ping districts throughout the country asking for informa- 
tion relative to organizing and conducting shipping associa- 



FOB NOB THEBN MABKE TS 153 

tions. It is generally admitted that the first important step 
is organizing. To market perishables (fruits and vegeta- 
bles), organized efforts should always lead to the best 
result. An association equipped for business will find the 
subject of distribution one of the most important connect- 
ed with the industry. Hence the new man in the business 
must be governed by the counsel of the experienced in 
such matters, because experiments are usually more costly 
than profitable. 

In the forty-five years we have been in the commission 
business we can recall nothing better in the way of good 
advice than the following address of J. B. Graves, of 
Neosho, Mo., before the Illinois State Horticultural Society. 
Mr. Graves is president of what might be termed Missouri's 
model shipping association. Mr. J. H. Christian, the man- 
ager, informed the writer that his people could show bet- 
ters results during seven consecutive years than the many 
rival organizations who pursued a different plan in mar- 
keting. The most experienced of kindred organizations 
elsewhere will find something new and instructive in this 
address. 

The expenses connected with conducting the organiza- 
tion, who are paid and how much and the methods of 
payment and how expenses are kept at the minimum, and 
how payments are made pro rata to shippers, and how 
often, are facts of interest to all engaged in such enter- 
prises. 

The manner of picking, packing, grading and marking the 
different qualities and finally the stamping of the shippers 
name on the end of each case, together with much addi- 
tional detail, constitute much useful and valuable infor- 
mation. 

"The Fruitman's Guide," which published the address 



154 SOUTHEBN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

soon after its delivery, comments editorially on the paper 
thus : 

J. B. Graves, of Neosho, Mo., a man who certainly ought 
to know what he is talking about, is a great believer in 
the commission merchant and the important part he plays 
in the marketing of goods on a commission basis. Every 
reader of the Guide who is a grower and shipper should 
read what Mr. Graves has to say regarding co-operative 
fruit-selling — not through track buyers — but through com- 
mission men. Listen to this part of an address read by 
Mr. Graves before the Illinois Horticultural Society: 

"Down at Neosho, Mo., we have an organization of 
fruit growers that has been fairly successful in the busi- 
ness, and has made a good reputation throughout Missouri 
and in all the markets where it has done business. We 
have an organization of about 140 members. It is mainly 
a strawberry organization, its work being almost exclu- 
sively the growing and shipping of strawberries. We have 
been organized about eleven years. At one time we 
had nearly 200 members. 

"The officers of our society consist of president, vice- 
president, secretary, treasurer and a business committee of 
five, one of whom is corresponding secretary and business 
manager. We used to pay our business manager two 
per cent of the gross sales of our fruit. Out of that amount 
he paid his assistant, the bookkeeper, the inspectors at the 
loading station, and all the helpers that were necessary to 
load the fruit upon the cars. When all these were paid 
there was left the manager about $1,000, sometimes a little 
more and sometimes a little less. Now we pay the manager 
one per cent of the gross sales. He pays none of the ex- 
penses just referred to and the association pays them all. 

"We prefer paying a commission to paying a salary for 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 155 

three reasons: the commission has a tendency to stimulate 
the manager to do his very best for the growers, for the 
more fruit he can sell at a good price the more he will 
make for himself. In case of a shortage of crops he wm 
fare and fall with the rest of us, and in case of a total 
failure we will not have to go down into our empty pock- 
ets and 'dig up' to pay him for work which he did not do. 

"We put upon our business committee men of good judg- 
ment, men of recognized business sense. We select for 
our manager a man of demonstrated business ability, a 
man in whom the association has the utmost confidence, 
both in his competency as an agent and his honesty as a 
man. The business committee hold meetings as often as 
they think necessary to look after the interests of the asso- 
ciation. They consider every subject thought to be of im- 
portance to the growers. They provide the growers with 
box and package material. They provide them with stamp- 
ing outfits, and every grower is required to put his personal 
stamp on both ends of every crate, together with the va- 
riety stamp and grade. On every crate of 'A' grade the 
manager puts the association trade-mark, a copyrighted 
stamp, which is the association's guarantee of high quality. 
They provide the growers with tally sheets with which to 
keep the account of the berry picking. They provide them 
with pickers and packer's rules, with bills and posters for 
advertising for pickers, and with all other needed supplies. 
They make arrangements beforehand with commission 
merchants to handle our fruit the ensuing season. They 
know before the berries are grown where the bulk of 
them will be marketed. 

"We never sell to track buyers. We always consign to 
commission merchants. We have demonstrated to our 
satisfaction that it is to our advantage to do so. We get 



156 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

better prices than most of our neighbors who sell on track. 

!'We stand by the commission people in the beginning when 
the berries are the best and prices high, and they stand by us 
in the end when they are poorest, when the track buyers would 
desert us. 

"The business committee arrange with the railroads for 
their share of the business. They arrange for plenty of re- 
frigerator cars. They arrange for re-icing cars in transit. 
They arrange with electric light and telephone companies 
for their services at the loading shed. They arrange with 
numerous men for their services as bookkeeper, inspector 
loader at the shipping station or instructor in the field. 
They look after the details of the business, having author- 
ity to attend to it just as though it were their own. 

"We have a constitution and by-laws by which we are 
governed. In it is specified who may become members and 
upon what conditions they may remain. In it are pointed 
out the duties of the officers and members. In it is pointed 
out how the officers are paid for their services and the 
growers for their fruit. The secretary andtreasurer are each 
paid $25 per year. The members of the business and audit- 
ing committees are each paid $2 per day for services act- 
ually rendered. The manager is paid one per cent of the 
crop, and the president is paid in glory. 

"The growers are paid their pro rata share of each day's 
sale. To illustrate: Suppose five cars are sold. One goes 
to Kansas City and sells for $2 per crate, one to Omaha 
and sells for $2.25, one to Denver and sells for $2.50, one to 
Minneapolis and sells for $2.75, and one to Duluth and sells 
for $3. We find the total net value of the five cars and 
the total number of crates in them. We divide the total 
net value by the total number of crates and the quotient is 
the average price per crate and that is what the growers 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS 157 

are paid. And so on to the end of the season. In the 
by-laws it is specified that the growers must deliver all 
their fruit, which they have to sell, to the manager, and 
that they must not pay more than the association price 
for picking, which is iy 2 cents per quart. In it is specified 
that the fruit must be carefully graded 'A' and 'B' and that 
if any does not meet the requirements of the 'B' grade it 
will not be shipped at all. The only difference between the 
two grades in size. The 'A' grade must be large. The 'B' 
grade may be smaller, or medium size. But the little 
dinky, buttony or warty berries must not be packed at all. 
All berries to be shipped, whether 'A' or 'B' must be sound, 
well-shaped, well colored and clean, and the measure must 
be scriptural, pressed down, shaken together, heaped up 
and running over." 



A MODEL CONTRACT. 

The following is a copy of agreement or contract between 
the Warren County Strawberry Growers' Association of 
Bowling Green, Ky., and their Commission houses in the 
various markets they consign to. It is so concise and to 
the point, that it is worthy of reproduction here. Divest- 
ed of all superfluous legal garbage, it will be recognized at 
once for its good sense and brevity. 

While it is our intention to sell all of our berries for the 
cash, F. O. B. Bowling Green, yet we may have to consign 
some cars before the season is over, so we have selected 
your house for your market, for all cars we may have to 
consign to your city, provided the following conditions and 
terms will meet with your approval: 

You to receive all carloads of berries we consign to you 
for our account, and to sell such cars of berries for the best 



158 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

possible prices, and to wire us each day, stating exactly 
what the berries were sold for, and to make returns on all 
sales promptly, giving us a detailed report on sale of all 
cars consigned to you and prices obtained, and you further 
agreeing to charge us for your services not over 7 per cent 
on sale of all cars we consign to you. 

We agreeing to consign no berries to any other house In 
your city while consigning berries to you. 

Furthermore, it is understood, that both you and our As- 
sociation reserve the right, if for any reason whatsoever, 
either party of this contract, to withdraw and cancel this 
agreement without any notice other than so notifying the 
other party three (3) days in advance of such action. 

If this meets with your approval, you will please confirm 
same at your earliest convenience and oblige. 

Yours truly, 

H. D. GRAHAM, Manager. 

COW PEAS. 

Cow peas we consider a regular Southern crop, and one 
that paid mighty well the past several years. We have 
handled considerable of them for years from Southern Illi- 
nois, West Tennessee, Western Kentucky, Northern Mis- 
sissippi and Northern Alabama. It is one of the forage 
field crops of the South, and is next to clover, if not as 
good for renovating or enriching the soil. They can, of 
course, be used for stock feed or seed purposes. There 
are a number of varieties, but the main or standard sort is 
the Whippoorwill, well-known and widely cultivated. They 
have ranged during March from $1.75 to $2.00 bushel— good 
stock April 6th selling at $1.85. They can be shipped sue- 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 



159 



cessfully in sacks. Should not, however, be held until 
warm weather sets in, as that marks the advent of the 
weevil. You should get rid of your crop by the first to 
middle of April. Speculators have to put them in cold 
storage later to save them from the weevil. 



Approximate Time for Certain Varieties of Seeds to 
Germinate. 



Asparagus 20 days 

Beans 8 days 

Cabbage 8 days 

Cauliflower 10 days 

Celery 4 days 

Salsify 10 days 

Corn .8 days 

Cucumbers 7 to 8 days 

Egg plant 10 days 

Lettuce 4 days 

Watermelons -10 days 

Cantaloupes 8 days 

Carrotts 12 to 18 days 

Mustard 6 days 



Okra 10 days 

Onions 10 days 

Onions > 10 days 

Parsley 20 days 

Peas 8 days 

Pepper 10 days 

Pumpkins 5 to 8 days 

Radish 4 days 

Spinach 8 days 

Tomatoes 10 days 

Turnips 5 to 7 days 

Tobacco 10 days 

Squash 5 to 8 days 



160 SOUTHEBN FBTJITS AND VEGETABLES 

BUSINESS LAWS IN BRIEF. 

Ignorance of law excuses none. 

It is fraud to conceal a fraud. 

The law compels no one to do impossibilities. 

An agreement without consideration is void. 

Signatures made with lead-pencil are good in law. 

A receipt for money paid is not legally conclusive. 

The acts of one partner bind all the others. 

Contracts made on Sunday cannot be enforced. 

A contract made with a minor is invalid. 

A contract made with a lunatic is void. 

Contracts for advertising in Sunday newspapers are in- 
valid. 

Each individual in a partnership is responsible for the 
whole amount of the debts of the firm. 

Principals are responsible for the acts of their agents, 
unless they do something unauthorized or illegal. 

Agents are responsible to their principals for errors. 

A note given by a minor is void. 

It is not legally necessary to say on a note "for value 
received." 

A note drawn on Sunday is void. 

A note obtained by fraud, or from a person in a state 
of intoxication, cannot be collected. 

If a note be lost or stolen, it does not release the maker; 
he must pay. 

The indorser of a note is exempt from liability if not 
served with notice of its dishonor within twenty-four hours 
of its non-payment. 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 161 



POULTRY RAISING VERY PROFITABLE. 

As we have reached the last pages of this edition, we 
find we have some space to spare from the fruit and vege- 
table topics, and it occurred to us there would be no more 
fitting place to devote a few pages to the raising of 
Poultry, which is usually incidental to the cultivation of 
fruits and vegetables. 

Hundreds of our shippers in Missouri, Southern Illinois, 
Arkansas, Western Kentucky, West Tennessee, Missis- 
sippi, Northern Alabama, Northern Louisiana, Oklahoma 
and Texas, raise lots of Poultry, Eggs, Butter, etc., and 
we wish to call the attention of this people to the fact 
that we handle such products, especially during the win- 
ter, when they have most time to prepare and ship them. 
Other commission merchants, whose card is in this book, 
representing their respective markets, will also handle 
these goods for you, but if they do not care to do so, 
their neighbors in the commission business will very cheer- 
fully take and sell them for you or for them. 

The prices on such goods have been steadily advancing 
in all markets during the past 17 years, and if the prices 
ruling 14 to 17 years ago paid them, the profits today 
must be very much larger, in view of the big increase in the 
values of such products everywhere. Poultry and Eggs 
have become staple articles just as much so as Cotton, 
Corn, Wheat, Apples or any other products regarded safe 
to handle throughout the year. The markets are not 
broken by heavy offerings as in former years when prices 
went very low occasionally. 

There is nothing that can be grown on the farm that 



162 SOUTHEBJSt EBTJITS Atfl) VEGETABLES 

would pay so well, considering the capital and labor in- 
volved, as the poultry crop. The farmers' wives and 
daughters can look after these matters while the farmer 
himself can be engaged in what he regards as more im- 
portant work. The income from such sources has grown 
to one of great extent in every state and will continue 
to do so. 

Poultry and Eggs are staples that have gone up to stay 
and will never again be cheap, because the meat supply 
will always be high enough to kteep the poultry crop at 
good figures. Whenever the market declines to any extent, 
it is immediately cleaned up by the speculators, who will 
put the surplus in cold storage, killing and dressing when- 
ever necessary, and the same can be said of eggs, which 
are put into cold storage in all cities in March, April and 
May, when the crop is at its height. In this way good 
prices can be obtained throughout the year and will be 
in the future. There is so much feed wasted on every 
farm that it is surprising the poultry crops are not larger 
every year. 

To further illustrate the advance of prices in the in- 
dustry, we submit herewith a table of prices, showing the 
figures ruling in 1895, a year ago and the present quota- 
tions. We happened to preserve a few market reports, 
going to show the low prices formerly prevailing, and did 
we not see these figures in the Price Current, which is 
one of the most accurate and reliable published in the 
country, we could not believe that such low prices pre- 
vailed as late as 17 years ago. 

Here are the figures that will be interesting at this 
time to most people raising poultry: 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 



163 



PRICES JUNE 27TH, 1895. 

Eggs 8c Doz. 

Live Chickens (Hens) 7%c Lb. 

" Roosters 3%c " 

" Turkeys 5c 

". Ducks (Old) ..6c 

" Spring Ducks 7-8c 

" Spring Geese 7c " 

" Geese (Old) 3c 

PRICES JUNE 27TH, 1911. 

Eggs 12c Doz. 

Live Chickens (Hens) lO^c Lb. 

" Cocks and Stags 6c 

" Turkeys 13-15c 

rt Ducks (Old) 10c 

" Spring Ducks lie 

" Spring Geese 9c 

" Geese (Old) 6c 

PRICES APRIL 19TH, ,1912. 

Eggs 18c Doz. 

Live Chickens (Hens) 12%e Lb. 

" Capons, 6 to 8 lbs 16-17c 

" Cocks 6-7c 

" Chicken Broilers I . 25c 

" Turkeys (Choice) 14c 

" Ducks (Old) ...lie 

" Ducks (Young) 15c 

" Geese lie 

To show how the South has responded to the call for 
diversified crops, and especially in the poultry line, we 
recall very distinctly from 20 to 30 years ago the best 
order trade that we had for dressed poultry came from the 



164 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

southern cities for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New 
Years. Every year regularly we had extensive orders for 
Dressed Turkeys, Chickens, Ducks, Geese, etc., from New 
Orleans, Mobile, Birmingham, Memphis, Galveston, Hous- 
ton, Dallas, San Antonio, Vicksburg and Jackson, Miss., 
and in fact, from many of the minor markets in all South- 
ern States, but a wonderful change has taken place since 
then. 

Mississippi is a heavy carlot shipper of poultry and 
eggs, shipping to outside markets every winter and spring 
quite freely. West Tennessee, which shipped here nearly 
altogether in former years, now finds the Southern cities 
their best markets, especially Mobile and New Orleans, 
who have quite an outlet in Cuba for such goods. Texas, to 
which we formerly shipped so much dressed poultry, ships 
hundreds of carloads out of the state every year, in addi- 
tion to supplying all her home markets, that have grown 
up to a wonderful extent. So, instead of being importers, 
all these Southern states have become exporters of poultry 
and eggs. 

It should not be forgotten in this connection that all 
staple crops have their brief season and then they are 
gone until the following year, but the poultry and egg 
supply run forever, like a river, and are coming along 
every month in the year. In that respect they are widely 
different from all other crops, so the income is steady, 
and as it comes to some extent every month in the year — 
chickens and eggs — it counts up much faster than the aver- 
age observer is aware of. 

You are not at the mercy of the Beef Trust or any 
other food trusts while you have such crops on your 
premises in addition to fruits and vegetables. It makes 
the farmer and trucker more independent throughout the 



FOR NORTHERN MARKETS. 165 

year. If you will improve this and similar opportunities 
available, you will be more prosperous than ever. Back 
of your efforts in this direction you will have the sym- 
pathy and patronage of an appreciative public who re- 
gard the poultry industry the only means of escape from 
the Beef Trust, whose methods to enrich themselves are 
too well known to dwell on here. 

THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF COMMISSION MER- 
CHANTS. 

This is a body of men who have been of great benefit 
to the producers and shippers of the country in various 
ways since they were organized 20 years ago. Much need- 
ed and long delayed reforms have gradually come through 
the advent and activity of this industrious body of com- 
mission merchants. For years the leading commission 
merchants of the various cities of the country felt the 
necessity of getting together to eliminate from the business 
abuses and evils which were growing up unchecked on 
every side. None of the existing evils perhaps were as 
had as those adventures in the ranks of the trade known 
as "fly by night" commission men and speculators. This 
class was steadily growing and making it more difficult 
for the legitimate dealer or commission merchant to exist. 
The operations of those men grew larger and bolder from 
year to year, and their actions and methods brought dis- 
credit on the whole fraternity, so that finally the shipper 
and producer was bewildered and dismayed at the outlook 
confronting him. 

Correspondence began at once between the leading firms 
in the principal markets over the situation, which was 
steadily growing worse. Finally a day was set for a 
convention in Chicago in the winter 1892-93, just 20 years 



166 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

ago last January. The convention was made up of 21 
delegates representing eight cities — New York, Phila- 
delphia, Boston, Chicago, Cincinnati, St. Louis, Baltimore 
and Louisville. Many of these members become quite 
prominent in the organization later. This was the be- 
ginning of a body destined to live for all time. The organ- 
ization grew and prospered on its merits. Never did a 
body of business men work so hard or unselfishly in their 
efforts to make this league a success and worthy of the 
patronage of the best class of shippers throughout the 
country. 

This convention at Chicago lasted two days. It was 
a period of incessant work in behalf of the new organiza- 
tion. The election of officers resulted as follows: 

President, J. J. Phillips, New York City; Vice-President, 
Geo. W. Barnett, Chicago, 111. 

Both were able and distinguished men, whose counsel 
was quite valuable in that gathering. Col. Phillips, one of 
the most distinguished men in the organization while he 
lived, was largely responsible for the Constitution and By- 
Laws of the League, a production that could not well be 
improved on. Both these gentlemen, several years after- 
wards, passed over to the silent majority, deeply regretted 
by their co-workers and friends in the organization. A. 
Warren Patch of Boston, who is still actively engaged in 
business, was made Secretary, a position which he filled 
for fifteen years afterwards. The writer, P. M. Kiley of 
St. Louis, was elected Treasurer. Some years afterwards 
he was made President and finally served one year as 
Secretary. 

The growth of the League after the convention was 
steady,, and the printed reports of the proceedings of the 
convention were read with much interest in every leading 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 167 

market in the United States. Then followed the estab- 
lishing of branch leagues in all other leading cities, until 
at present we have a membership of 400 firms situated in 
28 of the leading markets of the United States, Seventeen 
states are represented. 

Only leading distributing centers are regarded as eligible 
to League membership. Many of the towns who apply 
for admission to the League are not large enough to meet 
the requirements. Three leagues of the minor class have 
had to withdraw from the organization during the past 20 
years, feeling that they could not live up to the require- 
ments of the organization. The smaller towns find it more 
difficult to do so apparently. 

The establishing of the National League brought to the 
front, as usual in such cases, a trade paper, the manager 
of which put in a year in helping to organize the League, 
and got a liberal patronage on that account from the 
League for several years afterwards. That gentleman 
passed over to the silent majority and his paper died with 
him. However, worthy successors came along and multi- 
plied and became of much benefit to the organization, 
helping to eliminate the evils complained of and in pro- 
tecting the shipper and producer against the class who 
preyed on them too long, and unfortunately, very success- 
fully. The trade papers together with the League made 
it so hot for the "fly by night fraternity" that their 
elimination was only a matter of time, until at present 
there are but few in any city that can be considered very 
detrimental to the trade. Only through thorough organ- 
ization can results of this kind be secured. The wide 
publicity given to these gentry led to the prosecution and 
imprisonment of a number of them; in fact, several served 



168 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

a term in penitentiaries, all of which had a telling influ 
ence in the right direction. 

Another valuable feature that figured in the eliminating 
of the worst element in the commission business has been 
the postal laws and enforcement of same, which prevented 
the swindling class from operating through the mails. The 
victim, having this protection through Uncle Sam, has only 
to call on the postal authorities with his letters to sup- 
press or prosecute the men by whom he might be defraud- 
ed. It is singular how many shippers have been swindled 
by those using the mails for such purposes or violation of 
postal laws. With all such weapons available to the ship- 
per as furnished through the postal laws, it is his own fault 
if he becomes a victim. 

Some few that continue to prey on the public and who 
hesitate making promises through the mails, boldly go out 
on the road and invade the homes of shippers and become 
profuse in promises, which they do not always live up to, 
and the shipper in this way has practically no recourse. 
He takes his chances with them, which- he should not do 
unless after careful investigation of their claims. 

It is a notorious fact that most commission merchants 
are aware of, that a certain class go around in the produce 
district as well as express offices with their book and pen- 
cil and deliberately copy names of shippers from pack- 
ages everywhere they find them, where such goods are re- 
ceived daily. They acquire in this way often a valuable 
list of shippers, which are afterwards caught by well writ- 
ten letters. Sometimes they get good returns for a short 
time, until they secure the confidence of the shipper, but 
finally he is plucked. 

Many commission firms on this account hesitate sending 
out stencils with names on, knowing that in many cases 



FOB NOB THE BN MABKETS. 169 

such eventually lead to trouble and loss to shippers. We 
can say from our own experience that men, who have 
been shipping us for years, have been caught in this way- 
something that would never have happened had not their 
names gone broadcast on packages to these scalpers and 
frauds, who often sell this list of names at the highest 
price they can get, to parties who are willing to use them 
for improper purposes. We have been called on by many 
of our shippers to go around and try to get a settlement - 

out of , efforts that are usually barren of 

results. Others take their medicine and keep quiet, not 
being willing to be publicly paraded as victims. These 
losses and humiliations can be avoided by sticking to firms 
they know are reliable. 

OUR INTERESTS MUTUAL. 

The interests of the commission merchant and produc- 
ers and shippers are largely mutual. Their business is 
widely different from ours, yet neither can succeed with- 
out the aid of the other. While occupying a different field 
of labor through the year, yet each is interested in the 
success of the other. This situation has led to organization 
oi the different bodies interested. The Shipping Associa- 
tions are doing a good work for their members, because 
in union there is strength and influence— securing advan- 
tages that individuals could not hope for. 

The National League is accomplishing much for the 
producers as well as for themselves through organized 
efforts. To enumerate what it has done during the 20 
years of its existence would make a long story— far too 
long to cover in the brief space assigned to the subject 
in this book. Farmers, as a rule, are too isolated to get 
together and exist as a permanent organization in their 



170 soWthebn fbuits and vegetables 

own defense. Unfriendly and hostile legislation, excessive 
freight rates, indefensible express tariffs, and last ^ but 
not least, refrigerator car service and private car lines, 
which the league has been fighting successfully the past six 
or seven years— beginning at our Louisville Convention in 

1904. 

A committee was appointed there to investigate private 
car lines and refrigerator car companies, their methods, 
rates, icing charges, etc. It was soon found that they 
made practically such charges as they saw fit— enjoying 
some of those rare opportunities peculiar to monopolies. 
Their freight rates, icing charges and incidental charges 
suggested that the Interstate Commerce Commission was 
the proper authority to investigate all those private mo- 
nopolies. John C. Scales of Chicago, a veteran commission 
man and also a veteran in fighting excessive rates or 
charges on any commodity handled by commission mer- 
chants, was made chairman of that committee. 

The work of this committee, as disclosed in the annual 
reports at the League's yearly conventions, shows that no 
mistake was made by the convention in selecting same 
eight years ago. Each year's report showed what they 
had done in behalf of the organization and the ship- 
pers everywhere— relieving them of many burdens in exces- 
sive charges, to the various markets of the country— their 
many conferences with the Interstate Commission, and 
in responding promptly as witnesses before Congressional 
and Senate committees as occasion required. The final 
report of the committee submitted at the annual con- 
vention in New York City last January closes with the 
following from its able and hard working chairman: 

"I cannot close without most sincerely thanking the mem- 
bers of the Refrigerator Car Lines Committee, Mr. George. 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 171 

W. Bond, Mr. Chas. A. Muehlbronner, Mr. Frank E. Wag- 
ner, Mr. Chas. B. Ayers, Mr. George F. Mead and Mr. 
Carl W. Kimball, member ex-officio, for their staunch fealty 
to the chairman and their readiness to respond to every 
call in the interest of the League. I wish also to thank 
the officers and especially the President for his consistent 
and constant aid and to thank the entire membership of 
the League for their loyalty to this committee Without 
harmony and loyalty within an organization working for 
a common end, nothing can be accomplished; through the 
agency of these two elements always uppermost this 
League has accomplished much. No single organization 
in the United States has won more practical results in 
fts chosen field in the real interest of the whole people 
than the National League of Commission Merchants. True 
to the lofty aims set forth in the preamble to its constitu- 
tion, this League has always been found in the forefront 
of every struggle for the right and always will be if every 
member but remains steadfast and true. If I gauge this 
League aright, its pole star is the golden rule, nothing 
more nor nothing less. 

Respectfully submitted, 

JOHN C. SCALES. 

These gentlemen, who Mr. Scales thanks so warmly for 
their efforts during the many years of their joint labors, 
embrace some of the brightest men in the organization. 
They are all ex-presidents of the League, and in point 
of ability are fully equal to the average Congressman; in 
fact, several of them are experienced legislators and law- 
yers, who in their younger days abandoned law for the 
more active calling and harder work of the commission 
merchants. Mr. A. C. Muehlbronner represented Pittsburg 



172 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

for years in the Pennsylvania State Senate, while Geo. 
F. Mead of Boston served his city in the Massachusetts 
State Legislature a number of years. Geo. W. Bond of 
Baltimore is a good lawyer as well as a successful mer- 
chant. President Carl W. Kimball, who is occupying the 
office of president for a second term, is one of New York's 
most distinguished commission merchants and a general 
favorite with the trade. Frank E. Wagner seems to be 
admirably equipped for the position. He has a wide ex- 
perience with legislative committees, including Interstate 
Commerce Commission, Congressional and Senate commit- 
tees. Chas. B. Ayers is usually at the head of some com- 
mittee every year. He has been chairman of the Press 
Committee the past several years and always a hard 
worker in any committee he may be a member of. 

There are, however, many other committees in the Na- 
tional League where there is plenty of important work. 
The Transportation Committee has always rate problems 
and rates to look up in every section of the country, and 
conferences with freight agents are numerous, as well as 
with the Interstate Commerce Commission, before whom 
many of these disputes are finally adjusted. J. S. Crutch- 
field of Pittsburg, Pa., was for several years at the head 
of the Transportation Committee, being an expert in such 
matters, his firm having much to do with railroads, 

W. S. Gavan, of Baltimore, has headed this and other 
Special committees at times and as one of our ex-presidents 
and one of the hardest workers in the League since it 
started, his services have been most valuable. 

The Southern Weighing Bureau the past two years has 
been a source o ftrouble and loss too to many melon re- 
ceivers here and elsewhere. Some of our leading receivers 
here informed me they had to pay ovrchargs on many 



POU tfOBfHEm MARKETS. -\1& 

cars — 1,000 to 4,000 lbs. above actual weight on these cars, 
weighed, or passed on, by this Bureau. The Southern roads 
terminating here usually insisted on collecting according 
to such records. The National League, in defense of its 
members and shippers, had to take this matter up with 
the Interstate Commerce Commission to avoid further dis- 
pute and loss. 

UNIFORM PACKAGE LEGISLATION. 

This subject is still open and unsettled. A year ago 
this past winter, we had a bill covering the whole matter 
introduced, in the House and Senate in Washington — ad- 
mirable measures, which were completed after several con- 
ferences betewen the leading men in the principal markets 
of the country. What constituted a legal package was out- 
lined at length, whether barrels, bushels (hampers or 
baskets), half bushels, pecks or quart boxes or baskets — 
in cubic inches or otherwise. When the bill came up in 
the Senate a year ago, one or two Southern Senators took 
the floor to oppose it — stating they believed each state 
was the best judge of its own wants or needs in such 
cases, etc. 

These objections killed the bill in the Senate for last 
year. A similar bill was prepared and introduced in both 
houses this past winter, which it is believed will meet 
with a better fate. Each of those measures carried the 
unanimous indorsement of the National League, the North- 
western Fruit Jobbers' Association and the International 
Apple Shippers' Association. Many fruit growers' societies 
in New York and other states indorsed it — all fully ap- 
preciating the need of such a measure for the entire 
country. 

For instance, when a merchant in any city telegraphed 



174 SOUTHEBJST FBTTITS AKD VEGETABLES 

to any state in the Union for a car of apples, peaches, 
pears, grapes, strawberries or any other commodity, he 
should know in advance exactly what each package con- 
tained — whether a legal measure or short package — hence 
the pressing need of uniform package laws. 

Among the gentlemen who gave much time and thought 
to this important subject— preparing papers, which were 
read at the annual conventions of the League, Northwest- 
ern Jobbers' and Internaitonal Apple Shippers' Association 
— are A. T. Cummings of Boston, W. H. Bahrenburg of New 
York City and W. L. Wagner of Chicago. These gentle- 
men visited Washington on several occasions in the in- 
terest of this measure, as did the business manager of 
the League, R. S. French of New York City. 

When the National League was organized, they dis- 
covered a good many unreasonable classifications of goods 
on freight tariffs. Pears, for instance, carried much 
heavier freight charges than apples on every railroad and 
in every state, and it took the Transportation Committee 
of the League two years to get all those corporations 
throughout the country lined up in behalf of the pear 
shippers, and ever since the rates are the same on both. 

A hard fight and an expensive one is that of the League 
and other business organizations against the methods and 
unjust rates of the express companies operating through- 
out the country for years. The efforts of so many commer- 
cial bodies to bring these monopolies before the Interstate 
Commerce Commission was at last successful. The dis- 
closures before that body the past few months must have 
proved welcome and refreshing news to Rockefeller and 
his colleagues in the Standard Oil operations, as this 
trial gives them an opportunity to exclaim, "There are 
others." Some members of the commission intimated 



FOB NOB THEBN MABKE TS. 175 

to members of the press that a cut of 25 to 
50 per cent in some instances may have to he 
made. The outcome will prove a relief to the thousands 
who have contributed so long to the enormous earnings of 
the express companies — so widely published recently. As 
these Corporations engage the ablest lawyers in the coun- 
try to fight their battles, the League and other business 
organizations had to secure experienced lawyers to prop- 
erly present and prosecute the cases before the Commis- 
sion. 

Hence all these matters practically cost the League on 
an average some $3,000.00 annually since it was organized 
20 years ago, and while credit can cheerfully be given to 
the Northwestern Fruit Jobbers' Association and Interna- 
tional Apple Shippers' Association and some other organi- 
zations of minor importance, yet the assessments fell 
heavier on the League members than any others, owing to 
the fact that many members of the League are also 
members of the Northwestern Fruit Jobbers' and Interna- 
tional Apple Shippers' Association — so instead of paying 
one assessment, they pay three — one in each of the 
organizations they were identified with. The cost of at- 
tendance at conventions reach fully $75.00 to each visitor. 
So you will see that in the aggregate this work, member- 
ship, duties and cost of attending conventions, cuts into the 
income of the hard workers in the fruic and produce trade. 

There is nothing of a selfish character in evidence at 
any of these conventions. They are free to anybody in- 
terested, and in the annual call for the conven- 
tion,, a special invitation is extended to the grow- 
ers, shippers and shipping associations, representatives 
of the press, including trade and agricultural papers, 
an4 also to the Poultry, Egg and I)airy interests through- 



176 SOUTHERN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

out the country. It can be added that there are no execu- 
tive meetings at any of these conventions — no closed doors 
— everything being wide open and free to all interested in 
their labors during the convention. Our gatherings and 
objects differ widely from those of the trusts, monopolies 
and corporations that prey on the public. 

This is but a brief and hasty review of what the League 
has been doing as a body since it was organized. 

The National League gets out every month, through its 
manager, R. S. French, No. 204 Franklin St., New York 
City, a Bulletin containing a review of passing events in 
the trade, current legislation — favorable or otherwise to 
the shippers of the country — a review of the crops, prices 
and prospects, also freight and transportation matters of 
general interest. It imparts in every issue more or less 
information of special interest to shippers everywhere as 
well as to commission merchants in the twenty-eight 
cities where the League has branches. A copy will be 
mailed to any applicant at any time, free of charge. Every 
Shipping Association and carlot shipper in the United 
States ought to have a copy of every issue . 

DISTRIBUTION TOO EXPENSIVE. 

There is no doubt there is too much money wasted in 
getting the perishable crops of the country from tke pro- 
ducer to the consumer. One of the Lig expenses, which 
looms up at the beginning, is the cost of securing the 
goods — whether consigned or sold for cash — a big expense 
which should be dispensed with. The big margins that 
stand between consumer and producer should be steadily 
reduced. Every leading city has a number of traveling 
men, who, "during a good portion of the year, are on the 
road securing supplies of the various crops steadily matur- 



FOB NOBTHEBN MABKETS. 177 

ii}g with the passing seasons. Many firms in every market 
have not only one representative, hut several, so as to 
cover the different sections of the country, since one man 
could not possibly do so. It generally takes three men to 
cover such a broad field. The cost of this help throughout 
the year in railroad fare, hotel and incidental expenses, 
together with salaries, amounts, to a large sum, and yet 
all these funds must come out of the goods sought. If the 
crops so acquired are bought P. O. B., then the cost of the 
goods — the expenses of getting them and the profits ex- 
pected on the investment — must be all added together and 
deducted from the actual value of the goods. 

Now, here is a problem worthy of the serious considera- 
tion of the most progressive and practical Shipping Asso- 
ciations of the country. Let these bodies figure out the 
best course to pursue to avoid this heavy tax on their prod- 
ucts. This is the initial tax, and a heavy one, and the 
remedy should begin where the evil starts. 

California crops are not taxed in this way. Let the ship- 
pers of other States study their methods in avoiding this 
ruinous tax. Their crops have a wider field to cover than 
the crops of any other State, and if their goods were se- 
cured at the enormous cost inseparable from getting crops 
in other States, then the California growers would go 
broke at once. 

A square and absolutely reliable pack might solve the 
problem. Then the buyer could sit at his desk and order 
by wire a car of goods he may need and the investment 
could be thus divested of the big cost of getting them. 

The methods in vogue in all the States east of the 
Rockies disclose an army of traveling men, going from one 
place to another in every shipping district in each State, 
and the prices ruling at the various points, to which these 



178 SOUTHEBN FBUITS AND VEGETABLES 

men are invited by so many who will not consign, are 
largely governed by the amount of competition visible. A 
big crowd means good prices. A small gathering means an 
absence of sharp and spirited competition, and hence lower 
prices. Such places could doubtless do better consigning 
to a good firm in each market usually patronized, as the 
figures paid where the rivalry is strong will set the pace 
for consigned goods. 

MIXED CARS. 

Mixed cars should be shipped whenever possible. Crops 
maturing about the same time could be shipped to better 
advantage in this, way. A mixed car can be sold quicker 
than can straight cars of anything. Take the commission 
house who has the usual following of grocers, butchers, 
market-men and small dealers — they all handle a variety 
of such goods, and if they can secure all at one store it 
is to their advantage to do so. It's a convenience to both 
buyer and seller. 

COLLECTING FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE. 

The work of collecting from the Express Companies for 
damage to goods while en route, or loss through rough 
and hurried handling at transfer points or after arrival at 
destination, or through long or unreasonable time en route, 
or shortage in contents of packages, which occasionally 
appears, should not be as difficult to collect as heretofore. 
These companies are now under the jurisdiction of the 
Interstate Commerce Commission, are common carriers, 
and must recognize all proper claims of their patrons. We 
have stated elsewhere in this work that we often found it 
a waste of time filing claims for damages to goods coming 
from the South, especially from Florida. Southern ship- 



FOB NOBTHEBN MARKETS. 179 

pers commence early. Soon afterwards a declining market 
sets in everywhere for the remainder of the shipping sea- 
son, and delays en route means a certain loss to the ship- 
per. We recall one occasion where we filed claim against 
the Adams Express Company, and after waiting for a long 
time — after repeated calls for settlement, we were in- 
formed they had lost the papers in the case. When a firm 
is thus deprived of the only weapon they can use, they 
are practically helpless. The express ticket, on which no- 
tations were made of the damages or loss, is the vital part 
of the evidence. Hence, in presenting your claim, file a 
duplicate and not the original, which may be useful later. 

WOULD RATHER LET THEM ROT THAN CONSIGN. 

Every man on the road hears this expression occasion- 
ally. It comes from some man who fell into bad hands 
once or possibly twice in consigning indiscriminately — 
without making proper inquiry about the firm he entrusted 
with his goods, and after this experience he condemns the 
entire fraternity — puts them all on the same level. He is, 
therefore, easy prey for the first speculator that comes 
along. The shrewd buyer takes advantage of his weakness 
and buys far below the value of the goods. Should the 
evil rest here, the loss would be confined to one man, but 
unfortunately it inflicts many additional losses later, be- 
cause the buyer sells same in his market much lower than 
his neighbors can afford to sell. He sells low and yet has 
a margin in sight for himself, but he glories in the oppor- 
tunity he has to make his rivals lose money. If some of 
this fruit is shipped to other markets, similar loss follows, 
and everybody patronizing those markets at the time loses 
money through this one indiscretion— so the injury be- 
comes greater than will appear at first glance. 



180 SOUTHERN FRUITS AND VEGETABLES 

CO-OPERATIVE STORES BEST DISTRIBUTING PLAN. 

The past 50 years shows that the plan of cooperative 
stores, as established in England's leading cities — London, 
Liverpool, Birmingham and in many of the minor markets, 
is, or has been, the best available so far. This scheme 
has, it appears, reduced the margins between the producer 
and consumer to a minimum. The Associations buy all 
their goods from first hands — from the producer, distribu- 
tor, or both, and at the lowest prices. Supplies are pur- 
chased by the carload, and the goods are distributed direct- 
ly to the chain of stores throughout the city. The actual 
cost of conducting the business or stores is deducted from 
the profits and dividends declared every six months, or 
quarterly, if desired by the stockholders. Every patron,, 
with few exceptions, become stockholders in these stores 
they trade with, and thus contribute to their own earnings 
or incomes. Doubtless, it would be difficult to improve 
upon this plan. The great objection to the plan of co- 
operative stores in this country, is. the fact that most 
prospective investors know that corporations here have 
a weakness for absorbing all the profits in anything they 
manage. 

POULTRY RAISING PROFITABLE. 

A few pages in this work are devoted to poultry raising, 
showing the prices of to-day, April 25, 1912, and the prices 
prevailing same time 17 years ago. Poultry nearly doubled 
in value during that time. However, the figures were sum- 
mer prices, which are always much smaller than those 
prevailing during the winter months, January, February 
and March, when dressed stock is coming, which sells at 
least 25 per cent higher than live poultry sells for in sum- 
mer. Eggs are also much higher in winter than summer. 



ESTABLISHED 1880. 

GEO. HITZ ®> CO., 

WHOLESALE 

COMMISSION MERCHANTS 

30, 32 and 34 S, Deleware Street, 

INDIANAPOLIS, IND. 

Indiana's largest dealers in all kinds of 
EARLY 

Fruits and Vegetables. 



Personal and Special Attention given to Consignments 



Members of 

National League of Commission Merchants. 
Western Fruit Jobbers Association. 
International Apple Shippers Association. 
4 trading' ' Members Produce Reporter Co. 



Branch House, ANDERSON, IND. 

—181— 



E. R. GODFREY & SONS CO. 



Branches : 

Calumet, Mich. 
Hancock, Mich. 
Winona, Minn. 
Lockport, N. Y. 
Sheboygan, Wis. 




CAPITAL 

STOCK 

$250,000.00 



Wholesale Commission Merchants 




294-296-298 Broadway 



MILWAUKEE 



We make a specialty of Southern Fruits and Vegetables in 

their season, and have the largest trade in this 

section for these goods. 

WE SOLICIT YOUR CONSIGNMENTS. 

-182— 



C. H. Kuehne, J. E. Chastain, 

President V. Pres. and Treas. 

INCOKPOKATED 

^nehne-dhfigtein Commi^ion Co. 

COMMISSION MERCHANTS 

RECEIVERS AND DISTRIBUTERS OF 

Fruits, Produce 
and 

Vegetables, 

520-522 Walnut Street, 





i Produce Exchange Bank, Kansas City, Mo. 
Pi.irinjn.vmru J Traders National Bank, Kansas City, Mo. 
references < Mercantile Agencies. 

I P. M. Kiely & Co., St. Louis, Mo. 

SPECIALTIES-Small Fruits, Early Vegetables. 

Accounts of Associations and Individual Shippers so- 
licited. Our method is quick sales and prompt returns. 
Rubber Stamps, Stencils and Market Quotations furnished 
free, 

—183— 



Is One of the Best Markets in the Country for Good Goods. 



The Lawrence-Hensley Fruit Go. 

Will Handle Your Early Fruits and Vegetables and 

get You Good Results ; Why Ship to the Eastern 

Markets When They are so Often Overstocked, 

When You Can Ship to a City where You 

can Depend on Getting a Steady 

Market at Good Fair Prices. 



OUR specialties: 

CAR LOTS: — Strawberries, Watermelons, Peaches, 

Tomatoes, Grapes and Early Southern Vegetables. 

Both Car Lots and Express Shipments. 



THE LHWBENGE-HEH8LET FBU1T 60. 

1624 Market Street - DENVER, COLORADO 

-184— 



BUFFALO, N. Y. watch our market 

f RED DRENNISEN 



156 MICHIGAN ST. 



MV ^PIFPTATTV Representing Shipping Associations 



and Large Shippers. 



DISTHIBTJTEB 



CITRUS AND DECIDUOUS FRUIT, 

VEGETABLES AND PRODUCE, 

POULTRY, EGGS AND BUTTER. 



HERE ARE NY FACILITIES FOR DISTRIBUTION: 

Private Sale in Car Lots on Track. 
Jobbing from Cars on Track. 
Private Sale from Store of 

F. BRENNISEN & SON, 

Generai, Commission Merchants, 

156158 Michigan Street. 

AT AUCTION SALE BY 

BUFFALO UNION FRUIT AUCTION COMPANY. 



CORRESPOND WITH ME— Let us get acquainted. I'll gladly inform 
you all about Buffalo as a Distributing Market. 

—185— 



S. G. Palmer Company, 

Wholesale Fruit and Produce 



COMMISSION MERCHANTS 



MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA. 



Information 
Cheerfully Given 



V^^^^> •* 




% 



& 



**ABJLTi&& 



ASSOCIATE HOUSES IN NORTHWEST: 

ST. PAUL, MINN. 
DULUTH, MINN. - MANKATO, MINN. 



We Handle All Fruits and Vegetables in Their Season.*^ 
—186— 



THE PITTSBURGH MARKET 

IS REPRESENTED IN ALL PRODUCING LOCALITIES BY THE 

IRON CITY PRODUCE CO., INC., 



-OIF 1 THAT CITT. 



We are Members 

of the 
National League 

of 
Commission 

Merchants. 




REFERENCES : 

Western Savings 

and Deposit 

Bank. 

Or any reliable 

Produce Firm 

in the United 

States. 



CHAS. A. MUEHLBRONNER is the President, with an 
experience of over twenty-five years. We know the wants 
of the trade and are equally familiar with the wants of 
shippers. 

Quick sales and PROMPT RETURNS have always been 
our motto. This Company is RESPONSIBLE and RELI= 
ABLE in every respect. Any consignments you may make 
to them will receive the best of attention. 



Write for any information desired. Stencils furnished on application. 



IRON CITY PRODUCE CO., INC., 

20I Ferry Street, PITTSBURGH, PA. 



—137- 



0]V[AHA! 

O. W. BUTTS 



WHOLESALE 



Fruits, Vegetables and Produce, 

801-803-805-807-809-811 JONES ST., 

OMAHA, NEB. 



The above firm has large warehouse, facilities for both cold 

and common storage, situated on Union Pacific 

trackage, and does a strictly 

car lot business. 



Practical experience, so essential in the distribution of all 

perishable products appeals to all shippers, and the 

O. W. Butts* firm solicits correspondence and 

offers its services in any capacity 

that the trade desires, 

— ia§— 



WALTER SNYDER, President. WM. J. BI.AINKPARD, Vice-President. 

DANIEL J. ROBERTS, Sec'y and Treas. 

The Snyder & Blankfard Co. 

INCORPORATED, CAPITAL PAID IN $40,000.00. 

220=222 Light Street Wharf, 

BALTIMORE, MID. 



SOLICIT CONSIGNMENTS OF 
ALL KINDS OF . . . 

Fruits and Vegetables. 



PERSONAL ATTENTION. PROMPT RETURNS. 

Jt * QUICK SALES. * J* 



MEMBERS OF THE 

National League oi Commission Merchants of U. S. 
International Apple Shippers Association. 

Cable Address, "Snyder" Baltimore. 

Long Distance Phone, St. Paul 8U. 

—139— 



• • • 



SEEDS... 



FOR 



Market Gardeners, Truckers and Farmers 



We can furnish you with Fresh and True-to-Name 

GARDEN, FARM and FIELD 



Catalogue Free. 
Correspond with us for Special Prices. 



SGHISLER-GORNELI SEED CO., 

No. 813-815 NORTH FOURTH STREET, 

ST. LOUIS. 7V£©. 

—190— 



Established 1839. 

John Nix & Co. 

Wholesale Fruit and Produce 

COMMISSION MERCHANTS 

No. 281 Washington Street, 

HEW YORK. 



Early Fruit and Vegetables 
A Specialty. 



WE GIVE ALL SHIPMENTS OUR 

PROMPT PERSONAL ATTENTION. 



MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL LEAGUE. 
—191- 



Cincinnati, Ohio. 



J. J. CASTELLINI 

Commission 
Merchant 

320 LONGWORTH ST. 



Our growing shipping trade enables us to obtain 
top Market Prices. We solicit only FANCY FRUIT 
AND VEGETABLES. Inquiries earnestly invited. 



MEMBER OF 

Cincinnati Fruit Auction Co. 
Cincinnati Chamber of Commerce. 
Cincinnati Commercial Association 
Produce Reporter Co. 

The National League of Commission Merchants 
of the United States. 

—192— 



Incorporated 1880. 



Capital Stock, $500,000 



ST. LOUIS BASKET & BOX CO., 



148 Arsenal Street 



ST. LOUIS, MO. 




Ideal. Shipping Package: for Fruits and Vegetables. 




Leslee Berry Crates, 
Always popular with Commission Merchants. 



SEND FOR CATALOGUE. 
—193 — 



D. O. WILEY & CO., 

Wholesale Fruit and Produce 



COMMISSION MERCHANTS 



20 Woodbridge Street, Cor, Griswold, 
DETROIT, MICH. 



Car Lots A Specialty. 



. . . members of . . . 

National League of Commission Merchants, 

International Apple Shippers Association. 
—194- 



L D. Saybe, J. Lorenzo Johnson, W. E. Spruauce, Jb 

ESTABLISHED 1871 

C. G. Justice Company 

COMMISSION MERCHANTS 

123 Dock Street 
PHILADELPHIA, PA. 

Fruits and Vegetables 

Prompt Personal Attention Given to All Shipments. 
Quick Sales. Quick Returns. 



MEMBERS JIIJ 


l^ft^P®_$ 


k MEMBERS 


National League £§£! 

of ~ gp 

Commission Merchants ^gKi 

of the United States. wK 


W!S^M^i@% 


|ft International 
M Apple 
W Shippers 
f Association. 



Shipping Stencils or Stamps on Application. 
—195— 



Tatch & Roberts 



COMMISSION 
MERCHANTS 



Southern Fruits and Vegetables 

17 North Market Street 
Boston, Mass* 



All Shipments Given Prompt and Personal Attention. 
Quick Returns. 



Members of the 

National League of Commission Merchants. 
—196— 



THE A. C. BLAIR CO. 



RECEIVERS AND DISTRIBUTERS 

OF 

FRUITS AND PRODUCE. 

CLEVELAND 

^^ SIXTH O I T V "^ 



WE ARE SPECIALISTS IN THE LINES WE 
HANDLE. 

WE SELL EITHER AT AUCTION OR PRIVATE 

SALE. 



If you want a High-Class Representative on the 
Cleveland Market, Write or Wire US. 



References : Members of 

Mercantile Agencies, Nat'l League of Commission Merchants 

Produce Reporter Co. International Apple Shippers Ass'n. 

—197— 



"Get Acquainted With Us." 



r 

Dore=Redpath Company 



WHOLESALE 



Fruits, Vegetables 
and Produce 



-♦ — «- 



111-113-115 East Third Street, 
ST. PAUL, MINN. 

—198— 



FRUIT AND VEGETABLE ASSOCIATIONS, 
DEALERS AND INDIVIDUAL GROWERS, 

will find it to their interest to correspond 
with and ship to 

C. H. WEAVER & CO., 

65-67 W. South Water Street, 
CHICAGO, ILLINOIS. 

With two adjoining stores, eight salesmen in this department 

and a continuous experience under the same management 

in this market since 1863, our judgment, facilities 

and capacity for disposing to advantage 

of large or small shipments of 

Fruits and Vegetables 

is unsurpassed. Stamps, information, and references from 

dealers and growers who have patronized us for 

years, furnished on application. 



WE ARE MEMBERS OF THE 

National League of Commission Merchants. 
International Apple Shippers Association. 
Western Fruit Jobbers Association of America. 

—199— 



JUN 8 1912 

COLMAN'S RURAL WORLD 

65th Year. Established 1848 
Published by 

GOLMAN'S RURAL WORLD PUBLISHING GO. 

Iy. W. Petty, Pres. K. M. Zimmerman, V. P. 
W. N. Kwio'tt, Sec'y. 

ami • *■ 

Colman's Rural World is the most ably edited 
weekly Farm, Stock, Poultry and Fruit Journal in the 
country. Scores of able correspondents contribute to 
its columns — P. M. Kiely* veteran fruit commission 
merchant, is a contributor. As an agricultural paper 
it has no equal. It has a Home Circle Department 
which is eagerly sought by the ladies. As an adver- 
tising medium it stands alone when rates are compared, 
which are cheerfully furnished. 

See our list of premiums given with subscriptions. 

Sample copies free. Subscription price, $1.00 per 
year. 

COLMAN'S RURAL WORLD, 

821 HOLLAND BLDG., 

ST. LOUIS. 

—200— 



ESTABLISHED 1871 

Frank E. Wagner Wm. L. Wagner 

G. M. H. WAGNER & SONS 

MARKETING AGENTS AND JOBBERS 

Fruits and Vegetables 



PIONEERS and SPECIALISTS in the marketing of 

Southern Products in and from the GREAT 

CENTRAL MARKET. 

Experience, Ability and Connections of more than 

forty years upbuilding are at the service of shipping 

organizations and individuals. 

BANKERS : Fir s t National Bank of Chicago. 

MEMBERS 

National League of Commission Merchants of U. S. 
Western Fruit Jobbers Association of America. 
International Apple Shippers Association. 



123 W. So. Water Street ■ Chicago 



*©< 



ESTABLISHED IN 1866. 



45 




P. M. KIELY tf^B 



COMMISSION MERCHANTS, 

No. 903 NORTH FOURTH STREET, 

=ST. LOUIS, MO.=- 

We never buy or speculate in anything, hence never have 
any goods of our own to come in competition with those of our 
shippers— most of whom know our entire force is always free 
to serve them. We have not put a man on the road in over 28 
years to buy or solicit for us— giving shippers generally such 
good service that we have not found it necessary to do so, 
hence this big tax is lifted from the business, as it should bf», 
in the interest of all concerned. We are trying to remove the 
big margins between producers and consumers, and in this 
way benefiting both. 



FRUITS IN 
THEIR SEASON 
A SPECIALTY. 




RELIABLE 

AND ALWAYS 

PROMPT. 



MEMBERS NATIONAL LEAGUE COMMISSION MERCHANTS. 

Special Attention Given to Early Fruits and 
Vegetables from the South. 



• 

* 

• 



• 
• 
• 






• 






STENCILS, STAMPS, PRICE CURRENTS, Etc. FREE on APPLICATION • 

This book free to all enclosiag Five cents in stamps to cover postage. • 



Ev. E. Cabreras Printing Co.. St. Louis. 



: 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



0000T3flT03T 



Hollinger Coip. 
P H8.5 



